Review of Alcestis, Ted Hughes, Euripides

"stylish production of Greek classic" by Aline Waites for remotegoat on 07/11/08

Time was when the actors church was used only for memorial services for deceased thespians - but now - under the guidance of the Rev Simon Grigg, administrator Charles Graham and director Danny Winder this beautiful Inigo Jones building has become a popular theatrical venue. Currently there is an ambitious production of Alcestis, one of the oldest surviving plays of Euripedes in a translation by the late poet laureate Ted Hughes.

It is a curious plot - indescribable as either tragedy or comedy - it has been called a problem play. Basically Admetos, a popular king approaching death has been granted extra life by Apollo, providing he can find another human being to take his place. His beautiful wife, Alcestis, volunteers to die in his stead, insisting on making the sacrifice for the sake of his children.
We enter the story as Alcestis is being prepared for death. The ailing Admetos bows before Apollo. Alcestis enters dressed in a black robe with three black clad women in attendance.

Apollo takes the heart from the king and places it in the queen's breast. Admetos suddenly has a surge in health just as Alcestis declines. All she asks in return is his promise that after she has gone, he will not marry another wife and give his children to a stepmother who may ill treat them.

The play is directed to be played at full emotional strength which is unusual and surprisingly effective, particularly in the extremely moving death bed scene between Sarah Kempton as Alcestis and her distraught husband played by Shaun French.
As the body of Alcestis is borne out of sight. Heracles, (Mathew Mellalieu) an old friend of Admetos arrives arrives with a bunch of rough friends to provide raucous comedy - and a happy resolution!

The play is in modern dress and there is a minimum of scenery. This is never worrying as the costumes are appropriate and the church is its own setting. The slight acoustic problem affecting rich male voices is being worked on and the acting is overall sublime from veteran John Harwood as Pheres the father, to the three girl youthful chorus who do not speak in unison but are all individual personalities.

The action is punctuated by music from two violinists and occasional songs from the chorus.

A satisfying experience, to be recommended!

Event Venues & Times
finished	St Paul's Church | Covent Garden, Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9ED

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