Long Wharf Theatre Presents THE ODYSSEY: DEVISED This Weekend

Long Wharf Theatre presents The Odyssey: Devised, directed by Education Programs Manager Mallory Pellegrino, this weekend, August 7-8 at 7 pm on Stage II. Tickets are $10.

Cast is made up of six ensemble members, ages 14-22. The ensemble is Edward Cegan (Hermes), Tavis Dalaz-Cates (Poseidon, Polyphemus the Cyclops), Josie Kulp (Athena), Brett Pellegrino (Telemachus, Zeus), Julia Raucci (Circe, Penelope), and Emily Wilson (Calypso). Francesca Messina is the student stage manager.

The rehearsal process presented a unique opportunity for performers - the actors collaborated with Pellegrino to create the play. She worked with the ensemble using Homer's The Odyssey as the jumping off point for the story. Through a series of improvisation and movement workshops, and by using found objects, scenes and characters took shape. That creative process yielded a script, created by the performers and edited by Pellegrino. "Our main goal is to excite the imaginations of both the ensemble and the audience," she said. "I have learned how powerfully creative we all are as humans if we allow ourselves to be."

Each performer naturally gravitated towards particular roles in the story based on their own personal narratives. While Odysseus might be the central character of Homer's narrative, Long Wharf Theatre's production gives each actor their own opportunity in the starring role. "We started the process by discussing why The Odyssey is still relevant now. It's a story of a man trying to get back home and the things that get in his way. We can all empathize with that," she said. "In trying to make his destination he has some pretty exciting adventures along the way. The story mirrors our lives. Your life isn't a single destination, it is the whole journey," Pellegrino said.

For more information about Long Wharf Theatre, visit www.longwharf.org or call 203-787-4282.

"There is a visceral sense of possibility in The Odyssey rehearsal room. Theatre at its best is inclusive and excites the imagination," said Director of Education Beth Milles. "I am thrilled that the work of our department this summer is new work, encompassing process and adaptive original storytelling. The members of the company work from the classical original text to springboard into an evocative exploration of loss and hope. The work in the room is fresh and engaged. I hope many members of our community will come and share the experience."

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