March 19, 2004

Lysistrata is spring theatrical production

A rollicking comedy that has endured throughout the ages is the second spring production of the Loyola Department of Drama and Speech.

Lysistrata, by Aristophanes, will play in Marquette Theater through March 28. It is being adapted by Wilfred Major and directed by Donald Brady.

This tale was one of the mainstays of early Greek theatre, with a universal theme that resonates even today. In ancient Athens, the women of all countries, led by Lysistrata, scheme to bring peace and negotiate a treaty. Their proposition is simple but effective: until men stop making war, women everywhere will refuse to make love to their husbands. The results are complex, farcical and, to some degree, unpredictable.
Although it remains faithful to the source, this particular version has been adapted to entertain a modern audience. With costumes from different periods, lively eclectic dances, and music ranging from World War I standards to rock and rap, Loyola's Lysistrata has something for everyone.
" There's a reason Lysistrata is still produced today," Brady says. "In addition to its political and social overtones, this play is wildly funny."

Lysistrata will be performed in Marquette Theatre March 20, 25, 26, and 27 at 8 p.m. and March 28 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 general admission, and $7 for students and seniors. Group rates are available.

For more information, call 865-3824.