Burnham’s inspired imaginings
of Aeschylus' lost plays.
This rarely seen Greek play, directed by Joy Zinoman is presented in two
wonderfully enthralling acts.
The first act, Prometheus Bound, preserving the tradition and
classical style of ancient Greek theatre recounts the ancient myth as
told by Aeschylus. Prometheus, an immortal god who favored
humankind with the gift of fire, is punished by the great god Zeus.
Bound in chains at Zeus' command, Prometheus though suffering the agony
of time, abandonment, and the cruelty of nature defends the significance
of his rebellion against the Olympian gods and consequently reshapes the
relationship between divinity and humanity.
The second act, Prometheus Released, written by Sophy Burnham
is a delightful and inspired imagining full of depth and power. It
portrays Prometheus unchained in the 21st century. Finally
free from centuries of torment Prometheus comes face-to-face with Zeus.
Together they ponder the ravages that time has shadowed upon the Earth,
the role of the gods and the raging passions of humanity.
Fire, the wondrous treasure which invigorates our lives, is
it a blessing or a curse? We humans are forced to question:
Are we destructive children of folly or responsible keepers of the
flame? The gods, do they have a right to interfer in our
daily life, toying with our destiny even if it means our salvation?
And the gods, whether seen or unseen, we come to discover
that they too ponder finalities; seeking ever and always to
assist the aims of Being.
Reviewed by: FireMyst.Com
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