My social calendar was busier than usual this past week.

We spent one of those evenings with Rebecca and Raul at the opening night of Metamorphoses, a locally produced play based on the Greek myths written long ago by Ovid. It was an interesting presentation of mythology as a thread of old and modern anecdotes of love (in all its manifestations).

I had no expectations going into this experience; in fact, I hadn’t done any research into finding out what the play was about. So it was a pleasant surprise to discover that I’d be enjoying a performance about Greek myths, a subject that I was thoroughly enamored with as a child. (I’d done report after report on Greece and its culture for 2 years and still ache to visit the ruins of old.)

Highlights for me were the tales of Alycone & Ceyx, Myrrha, and Phaeton. The first two nearly moved me to tears: Alycone’s anguish and Myrrha’s despair were heartbreakingly acute.

The tale of Pantheon, on the other hand, made the most clever use of the 6-8 foot pool in the centre of the stage. It was a well executed modernization of Phaeton as surly pool kid raging against the aloofness of his father, the sun.

All in all, Kurt and I really enjoyed this play, and hope that you’ll have the chance to check it out too. Thanks to Rebecca B. for inviting us for a free screening, and Rebecca C. and Michelle for use of the photos above.

Want other perspectives on this night? Read Rebecca and Raul’s reviews as well.

Metamorphoses
July 31, 2008 – August 16, 2008
Pacific Theatre
1440 W 12th Ave | Vancouver
Tickets: www.pacifictheatre.org or call 604-224-4534