This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Ohio U chapter.
After attending my fair share of plays, both in high school and the “real world,” I wasn’t quite sure what to expect for my first trip to a performance by the OU theater crew. However, I was pleasantly surprised by their rendition of Mary Zimmerman’s Metamorphoses, which opened up with its first show on October 2nd.
There was one thing I knew would make Metamorphoses different from anything I’d seen before – the set is a pool! A wooden deck encircles the water, and a balcony/tree combination is set near the back of the stage, right at the edge of the pool. Of course, my group chose to sit front row. This entailed free “Emergency Ponchos” and a couple refreshing splashes to the face – both of which were taken happily. Being so close to all of the action was great!
This play is based on a classic poem of the same name that was written a very long time ago; 8 AD to be specific. It tells the story of six ancient Greek myths. And before I lose you with that ‘ancient’ talk, let me tell you – this adaptation is extremely modern! A cell phone is used as a prop in one of the scenes, and a few of the characters even seemed like they could be straight off the set of Jersey Shore. Furthermore, it involves everything you’d want to see in a live performance. There’s romance in a few of the myths, along with action, vengeance, and even humor!
I won’t spoil anything for those of you planning to attend, but I will say that the various stories told will make you think. Can you put a price on happiness? How far will a person go for true love? Is it possible to escape the power of love? All of these questions and more are addressed with the intricate and enthralling myths of Metamorphoses.
Now, I’ll be completely honest here – I didn’t go to this play by choice. It was a requirement for my Viewing Performance class. The only thing I got to choose was the day I went (October 3rd, if anyone was wondering). But don’t hold it against me! I went in with an open mind, and was amazed at the work put in by the actors, directors, and the rest of the production staff. Bravo, OU Theater! I can easily say I’ll be back for another show, even if it’s not required! ;)
If you’re interested in attending one of the remaining performances of Metamorphoses, tickets can be purchased online, at Mem Aud during office hours, or at the door before the show (if they aren’t sold out!). But hurry, the last day to catch it is October 12th!