An Iliad

[uwsman2]

This one-man show opened this week at NY Theatre Workshop. A modern-day retelling of the story of the Trojan War, based on one of the leading English translations, condensed to 100 minutes. Performed on alternating days by Denis O'Hare or Stephen Spinella. I was it with Spinella. Absolutely gripping and entertaining. Not to be missed.

[skynyc]

I saw this this week and was kind of blown away. I saw O'Hare, and cannot concur more..."gripping and entertaining" are perfect words. This performance harkened back to the days of traveling minstrels/bards who could hold an audience rapt with just word and gesture. I will admit that those seeking impressive spectacle will not find here, no chandeliers or helicopters here, this is textual interpretation at its finest. By a consummate performer.

 

I understand from a friend who saw both O'Hare and Spinelli that the shows are quite different. Spinelli plays up the lyrical part of the tale, develops the characters a bit more, sips "tequila" slowly and is softly lit. O'Hare is more dramatic and plays up the brutality of war. He gulps almost an entire bottle of "scotch".

 

I may have to go back. I thought it might extend, but apparently O'Hare cannot extend as he must return to LA to shoot True Blood.

[skynyc]

Apparently things at True Blood have loosened a tad...this show is extending through April 1, with O'Hare and Spinella still alternating the role.