Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Now Playing (and worth every penny): Metamorphoses


Parallel 45, a professional theater company in little ol' Elk Rapids, Michigan, once again delighted this writer with their imaginative adaptation of Mary Zimmerman's Metamorphoses. P45's interpretation of Zimmerman's presentation of Ovid's classic poem makes Greek mythology accessible, relevant, and incredibly entertaining.

P45 debuted last year with their rendition of Our Town. Having read the play and seen the live and movie versions of the story, I was beyond thrilled when P45 performed their fresh, unexpected performance. That show convinced me that I had to go back for more.

This year director Kit McKay returned with her take on Metamorphoses. The result - breath taking. Working with a limited budget (i.e. minimal set, props, and wardrobe), McKay and the cast manage to bring every aspect of Metamorphoses to life.

I'm sitting at my computer struggling to find the right words to explain how magical this show is, but nothing I write does it justice. The entire performance is an intricately choreographed dance that tells familiar stories while shining a new light on everyday concepts (how can hunger be so beautiful, and passion so revolting?). Even if you know nothing about the Greek myths, you'll recognize and relate to the plots within the show.

P45's Metamorphoses plays this Thursday through Saturday, August 25-27 @ 7 p.m. at the Historical Town Hall in Elk Rapids, Michigan. Tickets are $15 per person, and include a wine and cheese reception after the show (catered by Siren Hall). The show runs for 60 minutes without intermission.

As far as I'm concerned, there's no better way to spend an evening this weekend than seeing this show. You can't see a movie, or even amateur theater, in northern Michigan for the price of this professional play and refreshments (plus a friendly cast who isn't shy about mingling with the audience after the show).

Visit their website at www.parallel45.org for more info (and to buy tickets!). You can even find them on Facebook.

After you see the show, leave a comment and let me know what you thought!

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