Sedalia, Missouri – Feb. 18, 2021 – State Fair Community College’s Theatre Arts program will present an adaption of “Oedipus” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25-27 and 2 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Thompson O’Sullivan Studio Theatre in Yeater Learning Center. Admission is free.
Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” is a play about truth and fate. Oedipus’ fate is determined by the Gods when his life begins. However, because Oedipus does not know the truth about who he really is, he does not accept that his fate is even possible. He lives his life under the assumption he is someone that he is not; therefore, making choices based on the truth he knows. Apollo, the Greek God of prophecy, through his Oracle at Delphi, presents this fate to not only Oedipus’ father but also to Oedipus himself. Initially, Oedipus is sent away from his fate and then later in his life, he runs from it.
First performed 2,440 years ago in 429 BC, Sophocles’ play feels eerily relevant. Most notably, the people of Thebes are living in the midst of a plague. Aaron Scully, director of “Oedipus,” said the decision to produce and direct this play stemmed from that similarity. The use of masks would not seem out of place. Keeping the actors socially distanced would not seem odd. The audience can relate to the people of Thebes and their frustration that the plague will not end. There are questions about truth, and the Theban people are looking to their king, Oedipus, to do something about it.
Director Scully commented that he wanted to show Oedipus’ life instead of tell it.
“We felt this would lend itself well to the aesthetic of today’s audiences,” said Scully. “The pace of the show would quicken and the plot would be episodic, both making the play feel cinematic, yet being careful not to lose the theatricality. The choice was to show moments in Oedipus’ life where had he known the truth, he might have taken a different path.”
Admission is free; however, donations will be accepted at the door. Seating is first come, first served and limited to about 60 per show to allow for social distancing. Face coverings are required. For special accommodations, email Ryan Mahannah, Theatre Arts program coordinator, at rmahannah@sfccmo.edu.
Please note this show is recommended for audiences 13 years and older because of mature themes and language. Parent discretion is advised.
CAST
Oedipus – Aren Goodwin, Warrensburg
Jocasta – Kylie Gaunt, Nixa
Creon – Ben Brewer, Stafford
Lavis – Quincy Wilson, Oak Grove
Tyresius – Kennedy Keele, Sedalia
Polybus – Denver Montgomery, La Monte
Ensemble – Sarah Hensel, Provencal, Lousiana; Johnny Nguyen, Vietnam; Walker Schotte, Versailles; Jenna Speer, Coffeyville, Kansas
CREW
Director – Aaron Scully, Warrensburg
Assistant Director – Annie Henson, Clever
Stage Manager – Taylor Ireland. California, Missouri
Assistant Stage Manager – Kya Kampe. Warrensburg
Sound Designer and Sound Board Operator – Allison Hayes, Macon
Light Board Operator – Brianna Harlow, Warrensburg
Props Master – Hayes
Costume and Make Up Design – Henson
Scenic and Run Crew – Faith Ehlers, Otterville
House Manager – Henson
Ushers – Hayes, Harlow
