FINDING ONE'S VOICE
Greek mythology mixes with #metoo movement
The importance of speaking out and the pervasive effect of keeping silent transcends the ages in a play being staged in Palmerston North.
Massey University students will tap into Greek mythology and the #metoo movement for their production, The Love of the Nightingale.
The 1988 play by Timberlake Wertenbaker is based on the Greek myth of Philomele, who was raped and silenced brutally by her brother-in-law Tereus.
The play touches on themes of feminism, silence and power, as Philomele regains her voice.
Director and senior theatre tutor Rachel Lenart said using Greek mythology was a great way to highlight contemporary problems.
‘‘We always try to do something with political and social resonance. With the #Metoo movement very much alive, it’s an interesting time for us to perform this play.’’
It challenges the audience to think about times when they should have spoken up about something but didn’t.
Lenart said interest in theatre at Massey is on the rise, and past students are returning to volunteer behind the scenes. ‘‘Massey is one of few options for theatre in Palmerston North. It’s a lot of responsibility.’’
The Love of the Nightingale is being performed at Massey University’s Sir Geoffrey Peren Auditorium tonight at 7pm. Entry is by koha.