Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad—a contemporary retelling of Homer’s The Odyssey—is proof that adaptations can make room for a personality and heartbeat of their own while remaining free of expectations, so long as the viewer is willing to do some mental gymnastics. From a metatextual-adaption point of view, ThePenelopiadthrives.
The play is incredibly dark, horrifying, and, at times, hilarious, all while staying true to the themes and plotlines that the original work brings to light: jealousy, greed, and journeying home. But as with many of Atwood’s writings, the play challenges traditional gender stereotypes, telling the story from Penelope’s point of view. The tone is eerie, the direction is fresh and quirky, and the acting is versatile—all of this makes for an enjoying, slightly cerebral night of theatre.
ThePenelopiad—put on by the Canadian College of Performing Arts—is for more than just Atwood or Homer fans. On Wednesday night, there were times where it was evident that this is student theatre—the timing with props, vocals, and blocking was sometimes a little off—but the artistic experience or quality of the play didn’t suffer. Talent and heart overcame small hiccups, and there were also moments where skill overrode any reminder that this is amateur theatre. The chemistry between Odysseus and Penelope was fierce and passionate when it had to be.
The venue itself is one of the most welcoming I’ve ever been in; a vibrant sense of diverse community filled its air.
The chorus sang with a beautiful, fragile, glass-like majesty. They were a powerful reminder of the impact music has on theatre, often sending chilling vibes throughout the venue in moments of dark distress or psychological discomfort, of which there are many.
This play is a unique interpretation on a modern spin on a centuries-old myth. Ron Jenkins’ direction is the blood pumping through the heart that Atwood created; the actors are the oxygen in that blood that, more than once, is artistically spilt on stage in a great way.
The Penelopiad
Various times, until Saturday, December 1
$18.50 to $27.50 (Student discount available with student ID)
Canadian College of Performing Arts Performance Hall
ccpacanada.com