OEDIPUS THE KING
By Sophocles
Translation by Disken Clay & Steven Berg
Classic Greek Theatre of Oregon
PRODUCTION NOTES
Set in the zen garden of a mythical Theban court, director Elizabeth Huffman created a fusion of ancient Greek theatre forms with Japanese Kabuki, Noh and Butoh elements to illuminate through a unique blend of cultures the universal themes of blind fate, destiny and enlightenment.
Ms. Huffman worked in collaboration with Dr. Larry Kominz, Professor of Japanese literature at PSU, along with Butoh choreographer Mizu Desierto, Japanese dancer Diana Hinatsu, composer Susan Hurley along with Portland Taiko providing excerpts from their albums and the Japanese Garden who helped to create the 25 foot zen garden for award-winning designer Torie Van Horne.
With the use of elements taken from the traditions of both art forms, Ms. Huffman employed a stunning all-male cast, with three actors playing all the central roles. This production marked an ambitious and exciting change for this 24-year-old company.
CAST
Oedipus
*Trieu Tran
Jocasta/Teresias/Shepherd
*Michael Lopez
Creon/Corinthian/Palace Messenger
Doren Elias
Chorus Leader
Jonah Weston
Elders Chorus
Kristopher Mahoney-Watson
Nik Hoback
Corey Christiansan
Peasant Chorus
Tyler Ryan
Yoheii Sato
Keyon Gaskin
Antigone/Peasant Chorus
Joachim Andria Pujol
Isemene/Peasant Chorus
Henry Earle
*Denotes member of Actors Equity Association
PRODUCTION TEAM
Director
Elizabeth Huffman
Production Manager
Corinne Gayle Lowenthal
Stage Manager
Echo Brooks
Scenic Designer
Torie Van Horne
Choreographer
Dr. Larry Komitz
Diana Hinatsu
Mizu Desierto
Composer
Susan Hurely
Costume Designer
Bobby Brewer Wallin
Music Director
Chrisse Roccaro
Mask Designer
Wendy Gough
AWARDS
Drammy Award for Outstanding Actor
Michael Lopez
PRESS
Oregon Live
By: Richard Wattenberg
Feature Article Oregonian
http://www.oregonlive.com/performance/index.ssf/2010/09/oedipus_production_uses_fusion.html