Ballarat National Theatre is bringing a modern interpretation of an ancient Greek classic to the stage in Ballarat.
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Twelve talented performers from the local community theatre company took to the stage at the Ballarat Courthouse Theatre for the first performance of Medea on Saturday night.
Nothing compares to being there live in the room with actors putting out intense emotion.
- Megan J Riedl, director
Director Megan J Riedl said high quality acting, the intense drama and epic storyline of the show would be attractive to audiences.
"Medea is one of the most produced Greek tragedies ever, so it is exciting for us to share our take on it," she said.
"It is the first time Ballarat National Theatre has performed a Greek tragedy."
Ballarat National Theatre's Medea explores the dangers of a patriarchal view on strong women and the negative impact of parental conflict on children.
The story follows Medea, a foreigner, who deceived her father and killed her brother to help her husband Jason win the Golden Fleece, only to find herself betrayed by him in favour of a new union with the King's daughter.
The show features live music specially composed by Ballarat National Theatre actors and emotional performances by professionally trained cast.
Ms Riedl said the cast of 12, including three children, had been rehearsing twice a week since July, with support from her as director, an assistant director, a lighting and set designer, a stage manager and a costume and prop designer.
"It is a community effort and it is important Ballarat supports community theatre," she said.
"For me, theatre is the ultimate communication method. Nothing compares to being there live in the room with actors putting out intense emotion.
"I would encourage anyone to come out for an evening of theatre and for an experience of human communication we are so often lacking."
Medea opened at Ballarat Courthouse Theatre on September the 28. Shows will run until October 5.
Visit https://hermaj.com/whats-on/ballarat-national-theatre-season for tickets.