Review: Sydney Theatre Company's 'An Iliad' Delivers a Powerful Performance
This review praises the Sydney Theatre Company's production of 'An Iliad,' an adaptation of Homer’s epic by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare. Directed by Damien Ryan, the play features David Wenham as the Poet, who delivers a mesmerizing performance shifting between various characters, including Greek heroes and modern figures. Accompanied by Helen Svoboda on double bass and vocals, Wenham uses minimal props to evoke the grandeur of the Trojan War and its contemporary parallels. The production transforms the ancient narrative into a poignant plea for peace, drawing direct lines between historical conflicts and modern struggles for supremacy. Wenham’s versatility is highlighted as he embodies figures ranging from Achilles to everyday individuals, while Svoboda’s musical contribution adds an unearthly depth to the atmosphere. The review describes the 100-minute uninterrupted performance as a stupendous tour de force that establishes an intimate connection with the audience. It emphasizes the emotional impact of the storytelling, noting how the production makes sense of senseless violence through powerful acting and sparse yet effective staging. The article concludes with high recommendations for theatergoers, noting the show runs at Wharf 1 until June 21.
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Review: Sydney Theatre Company's 'An Iliad' Delivers a Powerful Performance
This review praises the Sydney Theatre Company's production of 'An Iliad,' an adaptation of Homer’s epic by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare. Directed by Damien Ryan, the play features David Wenham as the Poet, who delivers a mesmerizing performance shifting between various characters, including Greek heroes and modern figures. Accompanied by Helen Svoboda on double bass and vocals, Wenham uses minimal props to evoke the grandeur of the Trojan War and its contemporary parallels. The production transforms the ancient narrative into a poignant plea for peace, drawing direct lines between historical conflicts and modern struggles for supremacy. Wenham’s versatility is highlighted as he embodies figures ranging from Achilles to everyday individuals, while Svoboda’s musical contribution adds an unearthly depth to the atmosphere. The review describes the 100-minute uninterrupted performance as a stupendous tour de force that establishes an intimate connection with the audience. It emphasizes the emotional impact of the storytelling, noting how the production makes sense of senseless violence through powerful acting and sparse yet effective staging. The article concludes with high recommendations for theatergoers, noting the show runs at Wharf 1 until June 21.
theaustralian