If We Were Birds

by Erin Shields

directed by Lee Wilson

October 22-31, 2021

 

Ovid’s ancient story of Tereus, Philomela and Procne, told through a modern feminist lens. Procne, eldest daughter of the King of Athens, marries Tereus of Thrace and sends for her sister Philomela to be with her in her new home, where she is raped by Tereus and her tongue is cut out so she cannot betray him with the truth. The sisters wash themselves in grief along with a chorus of women who share their stories of violence and suffering.

 

“If We Were Birds is a shocking, uncompromising examination of the horrors of war, giving voice to a woman long ago forced into silence, and placing a spotlight on millions of female victims who have been silenced through violence. A deeply affecting and thought-provoking re-imagining of Ovid's masterpiece "Tereus, Procne, and Philomela," Erin Shields's award-winning play is an unflinching commentary on contemporary war and its aftermath delivered through the lens of Greek tragedy.” - Playwrights Canada Press

 

CONTENT WARNING: SEXUAL VIOLENCE, STRONG LANGUAGE, MATURE THEMES

Recommended Audience: Ages 18+

Digital presentation.

 

 

On the Edge — and Over

directed by Seana McKenna

November 19-28, 2021

 

A potluck of poetry and prose chosen by the company prompted by the phrase “on the edge — and over”. The full fourth year BFA class explores what that might mean, with several samplings of Shakespeare and other writers from the past, as well as their own voices — those of twenty-somethings in 2021. What is that moment of transition? The moment before you fall, or fly? Or almost do?

 

Recommended Audience: Ages 14+

Digital presentation.