Written by Maimona A.
(2004)
The Aquila Theatre Company’s presentation of Aeschylus’ Agamemnon is a hugely satisfying array of scenes of ancient Greek tragedy mixed with contemporary twists. Widely acclaimed for its cast, it includes Academy Award winner Olympia Dukakis, a seemingly adoring Queen Clytemnestra who possesses the secret desire to gain bloodthirsty revenge on her husband. The part was played with zeal, as were the other parts in the play, all living up to the honor of the characters they played. The acting was nothing short of superb.
However, the real surprise comes when the members of the chorus, the wise old men enter the stage dressed as it seems for a mafia get-together. They adorned long coats and hats reminiscent of the 1920’s in America than of Ancient Greece. This element of surprise continues when later in the play the king’s chariot is none other than an army jeep driven onto the stage. This contemporary twist, which would probably be shunned by classical Greek production companies, served to create similarities in current world events to those of ancient Greece.
The special effects are also very creative and effective. During the murder scene, the red glow and the blood curdling screams were enough to send shivers down the audience’s spine. It was sheer genius when Thyestes, having learned of the horror which his children had been subjected to, threw around the surrounding furniture in utmost despair. Without the loud noise of actual chairs being thrown, the chair was swung around in a slow and graceful movement. This scene, which would seem so easy to accomplish on a television sitcom, was perfectly executed by the actors.
Overall, the Aquila Theatre’s production of Agamemnon is a sure eye opener for audiences who enjoy classical Greek tragedy. With plans of presenting the next two plays of the Oresteia trilogy, this production of Agamemnon is a successful first part to a highly anticipated three part series.
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