The Bacchae & The Frogs

"The Bacchae" by Euripides and "The Frogs" by Aristophanes, both penned over two and a half thousand years ago, were performed to a very high standard by the Dylis Guite Players.

With the same ten talented actors in different roles for each play, and with copious amounts of dialogue, the acting and direction were phenomenal. Despite the ancient language and complex plots, the actors managed a fast pace, clear articulation, and precise diction.The team were perfectly cast in their roles and it was difficult to pick out any individual as they all gave first-class performances throughout.

The Bacchae

Jack Hewitt not only adapted the play, but alongside Isabel Wedgwood directed this very challenging Greek tragedy. They guided the cast and flow of dialogue superbly, all complemented by atmospheric music, sound, lighting effects and appropriate costumes.

The Bacchae recounts the tale of King Pentheus of Thebes who defies Dionysus, the Greek god and son of Zeus. To prove his divinity, Dionysus drives his female devotees, “The Maenads”, into a frenzy. Despite Pentheus's efforts to destroy Dionysus, he fails and meets a gruesome end at the hands of his mother, Agave. As the complex plot unfolded, four actors adeptly assumed various roles, predominantly as “The Maenads”. They captivated the audience with their impeccable rhyming speech, singing and dancing while ensuring complete understanding of the unfolding events.

Lucy Bytheway delivered an outstanding performance as Dionysus, with perfect body language, facial expressions and dialogue delivery. Zoe Bloss's portrayal of Pentheus was equally impressive, requiring different characterisation and mannerisms. Rachel Gray excelled as Agave, transitioning from the poisoned king's mother to a blood-covered frenzy under Dionysus's spell. All with the assistance of “The Maenads”.

Brilliant work from Matt Hutchinson as the blind Teiresias and Craig McCrindle as Cadmus.  As "The Maenads", Hannah Pamplin, Liz Lynch-Smith, Hal Grayson, and Jo Davies were outstanding in these roles, especially with their rhythmic dialogue. Every member of royalty must have an attendant and Alex Wilson filled this role perfectly.

Throughout the performance the audience was spell-bound, and you could have heard a pin drop – something that can only be achieved by great acting.

The Frogs

The Frogs was very different from the previous play, filled with humour and hilarious scenes amidst a complex plot. The directors kept the original dialogue but updated the language and outfits, staying true to the story of Dionysus returning from the Underworld, helped by his complaining slave Xanthias. Their journey is fraught with challenges and encounters with quirky characters including a sexy serving-girl, two whipped strangers, and a chorus of irritating singing frogs. Eventually, they meet Euripides and witness a contest between him and Aeschylus to determine who is the greatest playwright. Dionysus favours Aeschylus and leaves for Athens with him and Xanthias.

Again, a play with copious amount of tricky dialogue and featuring the same actors from the previous production, each portraying different characters. Matt Hutchinson excelled in the role of Dionysus, with Zoe Bloss delivering an impressive performance as his slave, Xanthias. Lucy Bytheway was superb in the two different roles of Aeacus and Philothea. Craig McCrindle performed his five roles perfectly, while Rachel Gray’s portrayal of Pandokeutria and Euripides was excellent. Alex Wilson gave an impressive performance as Aeschylus showcasing his remarkable voice. The "Singing Frogs," adorned in green tutus, were delightfully portrayed by Hannah Pamplin, Liz Lynch-Smith, Hal Grayson and Jo Davies.

Both productions were excellently directed and performed. The result of hard work and numerous rehearsals with the support of a talented production team of technicians, musicians, backstage crew and costume designers. Congratulations to everyone involved in this first-class production and the amount of applause said it all. 

Thank you for the invite and hospitality and for another enjoyable night at the theatre.

 

Sue Cox - NODA N.E Drama Rep (region 14)

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