The Performing Arts at Hamilton opens the spring semester with the Aquila Theatre group performing "The Wrath of Achilles" based on Homer's epic war poem, The Iliad, on Wednesday, Jan. 30, at 8 p.m. at Wellin Hall in the Schambach Center for Music and the Performing Arts.
Innovative and dynamic, the Aquila Theatre Company has gained a well-earned international reputation as one of the foremost producers of touring classical theatre. Aquila presents fresh and inventive productions of classical drama designed to breathe life into the texts, freeing the spirit of the spirit of the original work. Founded in 1990 by Peter Meineck, the company has won both critical and academic acclaim for its work worldwide, which has included extensive touring throughout Europe, the United States and Canada. Aquila is currently the company in residence at the Center for Ancient Studies at New York University. In recognition of its unparalleled commitment to classical theatre, The Aquila Theatre Company has received the prize for dramatic excellence from the Greek government and several prestigious British Council Touring Awards.
In the Hamilton College performance, The Aquila Theatre Company will visit the plains of Troy for a compelling and epic theatre experience titled "The Wrath of Achilles." Based on the later books of Homer's epic war poem, The Iliad, this original work will tell the story of the Greeks' near defeat at the hands of the advancing Trojans, Achilles' stubborn refusal to fight in the war, the tragic death of his great friend Patroclus and the great hero's eventual return to the battlefield to face the awesome might of the Trojan warrior, Hector.
"The Wrath of Achilles" includes some of the most famous and notable moments in world literature. According to The New Yorker, "The classics are made relevant with superb acting and clever staging," that defines Aquila. With dynamic movement, ensemble precision, and original score music, Homer's great epic poetry will live again in this invigorating and exciting production.
Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. All seating is general admission. For more information or to order tickets, call the box office at 859-4331. Box office hours are 1 - 4 p.m. weekdays.
