This adaptation of Euripides's classic Trojan Women is staged in a cavernous interior space in an old stone building, only recently made available for theatre. The production makes use of the depth of the earthen and stone performance area, which complements the darkness of the theme - the plight of women bereaved and then made slaves by the brutal rules of ancient warfare.

Several of the actors stand out for their strong performances: Deirdra Morris as Hecuba has the strong dignity and authority of her role as the dethroned queen of Troy. Catherine Byrne is moving as Andromache, who has to give up her son to be killed by the Greeks. Mal Whyte is suitably impressive as Poseidon, with a magnificent trailing high-collared coat. Peter Gaynor does a good job in taking on the conflicts facing Talthyibus, the Greek herald.

The script has the grand poetic feel that the story requires, without being obscure and flowery - indeed, far from it. The use of the occasional swear-word (including 'cunt' to refer to Helen) jolts the audience back into the modern era every now and then for a brief moment, before returning to the first millennium BC.

Cast Credits: (alpha order): Immaculate Akello - Pallas Athena. Leigh Arnold - Helen. Catherine Byrne - Andromache. Peter Gaynor - Talthyibus. Lenny Hayden - Menalaus. Mary McEvoy - Chorus. Ben Middleton or Jack Leavey - Astanyx. Deirdra Morris - Hecuba. Maureen O'Connell - Cassandra. Sarah Patience Naheme - Woman. Greg Rimmel, Seamus Brennen - Soldiers. Mal Whyte - Poseidon.

Company Credits: Writer - Euripides. Adapted by - Brendan Kennelly. Director - Michael Scott. Costumes - Synan O Mahony. Space Design - Jean Guy Lecat. Stage Manager - Ferga O' Doherty. Technical Director - Brian Tracey. Lighting Design - Michael Scott. Company - City Theatre Dublin.

END

(c) Colman Higgins 2007

reviewed September 07 / Dublin

Fringe Report (c) Fringe Report 2002-2008