| Communications and Development |  |
Published by Communications and Development
A play written in the fifth century BCE is expected to strike a chord with its 21 st century audience.
Frogs, the acknowledged masterpiece of poet Aristophanes, has been translated and directed by University of Canterbury Associate Professor Robin Bond. The play is a joint production between UC's Department of Classics and the Free Theatre Inc, and will open at the University Theatre in the Arts Centre, on 9 July.
Written towards the end of the Great War between Athens and Sparta and shortly before the Athenian defeat, it is an exercise in escapism and also a commentary on the importance accorded by the Athenians to the didactic function of the tragic and comic stage.
"As well as including scenes of rollicking farce and knockabout humour, the play explores the relationship between art and politics in the contest for the underworld chair of poetry between the two deceased tragic poets, Aeschylus and Euripides," Professor Bond says.
"This is a play that is at once bawdy and farcical, but also laced with rich verbal wit and complex literary parody.
"Unfailingly amusing and entertaining, it at the same time raises issues about art and morality that are as current today as they were in the fifth century BCE."
Professor Bond says while the translation is as faithful as possible to the spirit of the Greek original, some might find elements of the language and humour offensive.
The season runs from 9 to 16 July with performances at 8pm. Tickets cost $15 or $10 for school groups. For bookings phone 365 3159.
For further information please contact:
Associate Professor Robin Bond
03-364 3222
robin.bond@canterbury.ac.nz