It is A Greek tragedy, but Ismene is funny, thoughtful, passionate, and brilliant. To find out more about “Ismene – A New Greek Tragedy”, read the review and check out the photos.

~Review and Photos by Dana Nöllsch~

The Story of “Ismene – A New Greek Tragedy”

The story centers around Ismene, her family’s last remaining living member; her brothers and sister, mother, and father all died in dramatic ways. This is a Greek tragedy, and there must be a little more drama involved, don’t you think?

Ismene finds herself in an unusual place, about 3000 years into the future. Don’t get me wrong; this is not a science-fiction story. But she finds herself in the future without her family, working a mundane job and living a mundane life.

Did I say mundane? Well, her life is not as mundane as you would think; her family is still with her. Her family is still with her, but not in the corporeal way you would think. They are ghosts and love to harass her any chance they get.

As the play unfolds, she encounters her dead relatives in large groups one by one. With each encounter comes some clarity and perhaps closure.

If you love mythology, then you know a little about this slightly dysfunctional family. Ismene’s father is also her brother; this is part of the story, but they do not dwell on it.

The story is lighthearted and funny, with a bit of solemnity mixed in. I was taken by how easy it is to digest the story. There are adult themes, a bit of violence, and some drug use, but none of this is Paramount in the story.

Here are some photos to give you a taste of “Ismene – A New Greek Tragedy”

The Performances

The actors give a stellar performance, with Sophia Roman taking center stage as Ismene. The story is tight and well-written, but the acting shines equally.

Watching these performers on stage reminded me of how passionate people can be about what they hold dear to their hearts. These performers truly show their passion.

These stellar performances are topped off with solid direction to give the audience a surprisingly uplifting experience, considering this is a Greek tragedy.

The Bottom Line

Do not make the mistake of discounting a Community College theater production. “Ismene – A New Greek Tragedy” is as professional and solid a production as you would ever hope to see in community theater.
Even though this is based on a Greek tragedy, do not think your experience will be tragic; quite the opposite.
Plan a date night and support these up-and-coming actors and crew. You won’t be sorry.