The Bacchae (The Classical Theatre of Harlem)
About the show
The Classical Theatre of Harlem presents a free, outdoor staging of a work that continues the company's investigation of the current political and social climate via the Greek classics. More…
From the show:
Set in the modern era, Dionysus (God of wine and ecstasy) returns to his hometown in order to clear his mother's name and punish the insolent city for not allowing its citizens to worship him. The clash between Dionysus, played as a modern-day rock star and his cousin Pentheus, the uncompromising and moralistic king of the city, examines the consequences of a general public that blindly follows two vastly different leaders. Dionysus represents unbridled freedom and excess while on the other end of the spectrum, Pentheus epitomizes excessive law, order and rigidity. As society slides into fear and tribalism, its citizen's rationale becomes clouded as they blindly take orders and pick sides rather than seek moderation and rationality. CTH's interpretation is a lush and modern version of the classic Greek tragedy that tackles the ills of a culture obsessed with celebrity worship, social media and fear of the other, causing people to lose the ability to see the truth - that people in power are fallible…until it's far too late.
Member Reviews (4)
MEMBERS SAY:
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 Ha... 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 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 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.
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Cast & Creatives (3)
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