OEDIPUS REX

The Schlesinger Theatre is to stage Oedipus Rex.

Let your imagination float away on a stormy voyage, as Michaelhouse presents this Classical Greek drama about a king who loses everything. Set in the beautiful Old Amphitheatre, the play bombards the senses as the all-boy cast perform this famous play by the dramatist Sophocles.

Also known as Oedipus the King, and originally staged in the year 429 BC, the play has come to define western drama. The character of Oedipus is well-known in popular psychology, especially through Freud and the “Oedipus Complex.”

The myth of Oedipus is the story of an ill-fated man whose arrogance leads to his downfall. The play runs for just over an hour in real time, as Oedipus discovers his terrible predicament. This is a coming of age story. A man is asked to take responsibility for his life choices, some of them conscious, some of them defined by history.

The play has been staged in a ritualistic manner using the elements of fire, water, earth and air. The setting is a kraal, using costume, masks, music, dance and voice – to create a sacred space of transformation and healing.

Oedipus Rex is directed by William le Cordeur, with music direction by Hannes Ebersohn, costume by Carlien Walters and set-design by Kim Goodwin.

Performances take place on August 19, 20 and 21 at 14h30 and on August 22 at 17h30 in the Old Amphitheatre (parking at front of school and follow signs). Tickets R50 (R30 scholars) booked through 033 234 1314 or on email: theatre@michaelhouse.org A complementary tea will be served.