Regional
We have all heard of The Odyssey and Odysseus’ 20-year-long absence from Ithaca. But what happened whilst he was away?
Based on Margaret Atwood’s novella, The Penelopiad answers this question, shifting the focus from the legendary Greek hero to the wife he left behind. Rather than accepting Penelope’s reputation as the ever-faithful wife, this retelling gives her the chance to tell her own story.
But she is not the only one demanding to be heard. The twelve maids hanged upon Odysseus’ return also get their say, challenging the version of events that has relegated them to the sidelines.
A witty and vulnerable Penelope
Amelia Bullmore leads as Penelope, narrating the action with a performance that is witty and measured, yet underpinned by vulnerability. Her wry delivery brings a bit of humour to Penelope’s recollections too – which is always welcome to balance the play’s dark undertones.
An ensemble with plenty to say
The all-female ensemble is equally strong, bringing energy and versatility as they switch between roles. Functioning like a Greek chorus, they interrupt Penelope’s account to offer alternative perspectives, ensuring the maids’ voices are not lost in her narrative.
The physical theatre adds another dimension, with circus elements bringing a dynamic, often playful energy to the storytelling. The ensemble’s physicality makes for a visually engaging contrast with Penelope’s more measured narration, bringing the world of the myth to life beyond words alone.
The use of masks to represent the suitors is another ingenious touch, allowing the ensemble to transform into a crowd of unwanted men, and it is a simple but effective device that complements the play’s Greek roots while keeping the storytelling fresh.
Striking, stripped-back staging
Director Juliet Forster brings together contemporary style and ancient Greek influences, with Sara Perks’ all-white set, punctuated by red rope, providing a striking visual backdrop. The simplicity of the design allows the cast’s physical performances and circus elements to take centre stage, while the ropes become an increasingly sinister symbol as the story unfolds. The white backdrop also gives Alexandra Stafford’s lighting design room to shine, making shifts in colour and atmosphere more expressive and visually striking.
However, the shifts between Penelope’s reflective narration and the more exuberant musical and physical sequences can feel uneven and slightly jarring, occasionally disrupting the flow.
Final thoughts
The Penelopiad offers a witty and inventive retelling of a familiar Greek myth, giving a voice to those too often overlooked in the stories of its heroes. Amelia Bullmore’s compelling performance, the energetic ensemble and the inventive blend of physical theatre, circus and striking visual design make for an engaging production, even if some tonal shifts feel a little jarring. With its mix of humour, physicality and fresh perspective, there is plenty to enjoy in this reimagining of Penelope’s story.
Written by Helena Featherstone
Buy your tickets here: https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-penelopiad/
Photos by Pamela Raith
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