Why is Alcestis, a young mother of two (literally) at death’s door? Why does King Admetus allow his wife to die in place of him? Why doesn’t Admetus inform his guest, Heracles, of the death in his household and what part does Heracles play in this? But the question on everyone’s lips is - can death be defeated?
The Drama Society and Classical Association of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia present ‘Alcestis’ – the oldest, surviving play written by Greek playwright, Euripides. With a Theatron set up in the grounds and an open air atmosphere, audiences will be catapulted headlong into ancient Greece to follow the twists and turns of Alcestis’s predicament.
“I’m the cause of all this trouble” explains Shelan De Livera (17), speaking about his character, Apollo. Apollo is sent by Zeus to serve a mortal (king Admetus) as penance for killing the Cyclops who fashioned the thunderbolt for Zeus.
King Admetus, is destined for an early death and grateful for the kindness bestowed on him by Admetus, Apollo, convinces the fates (Moiroi) to let Admetus live past his time if a willing substitute takes his place at the appointed time of death. However, no one among his family is willing to die for Admetus, except his wife. Immediately after her death, Heracles arrives at the castle and, concealing the news of the funeral to his guest, Admetus entertains him. The next morning Heracles learns what happened, and sets off in pursuit of death to help save Alcestis.
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| Marlon Jesudason |
“Death is the second in command. No one can escape him,” says Mevantha De Silva (18), who takes on the role of death. One of the themes which Alcestis revolves around is the total and unavoidable certainty of death for everyone.
Another theme is women’s role in society. When Alcestis sacrifices her life, everyone accepts it unquestioningly and watches on, while a woman’s life comes to a standstill for her husband and is treated as a pawn which can be casually sacrificed.
“Admetus as a king who is willing to let his wife die for him. There are subtle political innuendos right throughout the play,” explains director, Vinodh Senadeera. Wary of public opinion and afraid of being seen as an impious king if he violated the rules of host and guest, Admetus has Heracles over at his palace (despite the fact that his wife’s funeral is taking place in another part of the palace), and fails to inform the guest, says Rahantha Abayakoon (17) who plays the role of Admetus:
“My objective is to make people (the audience) hate me." Admetus, though depressed that his wife will be leaving him is secretly relieved that Alcestis is dying in his place, explains Rahantha. His self righteousness, ego and willingness to let his devoted wife take his place makes Admetus an odious character altogether.
As the play unravels, Alcestis is constantly reminded that “death, abrupt and absolute, is close at hand.” Alectis’s plight is best highlighted in her poignant words to her husband - “I now, am dying in your place, though I need not have died. My youth filled with delight, joy, I gave up.” Alcestis tells her husband, Admetus, “And yet, your father and mother who were of an age to die, honoured by everyone, they failed you.”
“She’s a loving wife,” explains Adam Kenny (18) speaking about his role as Alcestis, “She’s the type of wife, willing to do anything for her husband. She has no options. She has to do it.”
Speaking to the Mirror Magazine, the enthusiastic cast of ‘Alcestis’ agreed that the experience of working in the drama had been extremely rewarding. The discipline required in Greek theatre fused with the challenge of working in an open air environment constantly keeps the cast on their toes.
“At the end of the day, it’s nice to keep the old arts alive. I’m all for modern theatre and all that but I think it’s really nice to see, occasionally, a traditional play,” smiles director, Vinodh Senadeera
“I think people should come to watch the show to see a difference in drama,” says producer Marlon Jesudason. With a Theatron built for the audience, Olympic torches and ambient lighting combined with an age old play and an effervescent cast – the entire experience itself will be one to remember.
‘Alcestis’ goes on boards from May 7 -10 from 8.00 p.m. onwards at the ‘Theatron’, College Grounds. Tickets are priced at Rs. 500 and are available at Park Street Mews, Commons and the College Gym.
The production is sponsored by Kotmale, Park Street Mews and Commons. Media Sponsors for the event are Gold FM, Daily Mirror and the Sunday Times. |
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