The Bacchae (The Classical Theatre of Harlem)

See it if you’d like to see a sometimes sexy, sometimes funny full update of the basic plot of the Euripides original.

Don't see it if you are expecting to see the Euripides original.

Also The Richard Rodgers Amphitheater in Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park can be the ideal venue for outdoor theater in the summer if the weather cooperates. I found this musical, sexualized, disco twist on the plot of Euripides’ “The Bacchae” to be fun in spots, a little stale in others. But the night was glorious, so I felt no pain, & a night with The Classical Theatre of Harlem is always worth a visit.... Read more Read less

See it if you like watching Greek plays in real amphitheaters. You don’t mind unpoetic anachronisms. Strong Maenads—both appealing & troubling.

Don't see it if The Bacchae isn't a family-friendly play but the production tries to make it so. Results are a bit weird. Not all of this was coherent to me

Also This show is fine for kids and there’s nothing here that’s not already at the beach and in music videos, but there is a crew of scantily clad women dancing and worshiping a literal sex god. If this were an indoor show for paying adults, the company could have really leaned into this entertaining and intense aspect of the play; but this production (responsibly and necessarily) adapts around it to make it kid-safe. Likewise, there’s rap, but it’s super clean rap.

But overall, the show works admirably well within its limits. This production made me realize this play could be staged more often. There’s such potential for racy spectacle, camp, excess, and some complex characters.

The sound quality was slightly foggy from where I was sitting. Not sure if there is a best acoustic spot in this outdoor theater.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see an ancient play turned on it's ear & made relevant to our times: sexy, controversial, challenging, funny & rocking out loud!

Don't see it if you don't like modern abbreviated & furious takes on the classics or CTH"s reverent but upturned style of theater, outdoors and free for all

Also I love this dedicated, passionate company, the Classical Theater of Harlem. What a gift to NYC!... Read more Read less

See it if a brilliantly conceived contemporary take on a rarely performed work with a superb cast and great music is for you. CTofH never disappoints

Don't see it if you don't like outdoor, amphitheatre experiences, some challengingly fast lyrics or no intermission shows

See it if It's a nice night and you have nothing to do other than go to Marcus Garvey Park and watch dancing that leads nowhere.

Don't see it if You have seen past productions of the Classical Theater of Harlem. This one is not up to caliber of past shows. It's boring.

See it if A lively new take on Euripides, about power and sexual identity with sexy dancing and singing Bacchaettes. Great fun in Marcus Garvey Park!

Don't see it if Rock and Roll format takes liberties with the original, rather than a classical interpretation of this great play.

See it if for the setting - love the amphitheatre at MG Park; engaging update of ancient story

Don't see it if you want a more formal p;resentation

See it if This is a must see production that will entertain any theater goer. The singing, acting and staging all come together like its on Broadway.

Don't see it if There is no reason not to see this fantastic production that will keep anyone on the edge of their seat.