'Walkabout' format gives classic Greek play a fresh look
Almost anyone who's ever taken a psychology class or cracked a book on ancient dramas knows two things about Oedipus.
First, he killed his father.
Second, he ... well, let's just say he "married" his mother.
And with both major plot points thoroughly spoiled for audiences, those tackling Sophocles' classic "Oedipus Rex" must find a way to turn dated material into a fresh experience.
In Janus Theatre's production, success on that front can be attributed to both Sean Hargadon's solid adaptation of the drama and a unique viewing format the company calls a "walkabout" production.
Audience members are encouraged to move around the stage and surrounding area, though traditional seating is available.
With the format, "Oedipus" offers viewers a chance to participate - albeit silently - in the action.
Most of us have a disinclination to disturb performers (mine, in fact, so strong that I chose to stay seated), but for the adventurous, it's a new way to watch a very old tale.
In the play, the king of Thebes, Oedipus (Tony Aiello), seeks to uncover the murderer of the previous king, hoping to satisfy the god Apollo, who plagued the city as punishment for the crime.
On the way to finding the culprit, Oedipus uncovers horrifying secrets about himself and his mysterious lineage.
The best performances come courtesy of an outstanding chorus - particularly Dan Hogan's nuanced turn as the Chorus Leader.
Lynn Wirth's Jocasta succeeds at conveying the queen's horror and shame and Aaron Thomann's Creon is appropriately imperious - perhaps forecasting the character's tyrannical streak in "Antigone," Sophocles' follow-up to "Oedipus."
Aiello's portrayal of Oedipus, while generally adept, occasionally drifts too much into grit-your-teeth-and-growl territory.
The operatic quality of the story throws up roadblocks to subtlety, but helping Janus' production are choral interludes incorporating music, poetry and artistic lighting.
The show's best moments come during those interludes, when it moves beyond the ancient story line and highlights one man's struggle against the cruelty of fate.
The production is at times uneven, but for those interested in classic themes delivered in a modern format, "Oedipus Rex" satisfies.
"Oedipus Rex"
@x BTO factbox text bold with rule:Janus Theatre Company at Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., Elgin
Times: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays through March 1
Running time: About 85 minutes, no intermission. Done in "walkabout" format, where the audience may wander about during the performance
Tickets: $10-$15
Parking: Street parking available
Box office: (847) 841-1713 or janustheatre.wordpress.com
Rating: For adults, contains mature themes, offstage violence