OBSERVER: Greeking Out
Let’s talk about myths, baby. Greek myths, to be exact.
Welcome to Mythology 101 with Professor Ari, an engaging masterclass of all things ancient and Greek.
First, please take note of the ground rules. Opinions are not welcome. This is a lecture, not a free-for-all.
Greeking Out, a one-woman show created and performed by Rebecca Perich, is a fun, fact-filled romp through the ancient world, complete with a PowerPoint presentation.
During our 60-minute journey through the ancient world, Professor Ari tells us, we will meet epic heroes, misbehaving gods, deadly beasts, and divine intervention. Take notes, there will be pop quizzes along the way.
Which god was the horniest? Zeus, of course, the bearer of a massive thunderbolt.
The angriest? Poseidon, the instigator of earthquakes.
How about Theseus and his mighty sword, the originator of the hero’s journey trope? Not according to Professor Ari.
Instead, we are informed that Theseus was the Ted Bundy of Greek mythology.
Professor Ari tells the story of the Minotaur, a cautionary tale about a monster who feasts on human flesh and blood.
Poseidon, the god of the seas, angry with King Minos for slighting him, punishes Minos by casting a spell on Queen Pasiphae so that she falls in love with a bull.
Nine months later, she gives birth to a creature, half-man, half-bull, the Minotaur, cursed to live in a labyrinth underground.
Poor Pasiphae, because, of course, why not punish a woman for the crimes of a man?
Cleverly written, entertaining, and passionately delivered, Perich mines a rich treasure trove, bringing these ancient tales to life in this show.
Let’s hope there are more to come.
Review by Kathryn Keeble