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Nov. 7, 2013 — The Allegheny Playshop Theatre continues its 84th season with “Medea,” Euripides’ classic tragedy in a modern translation by Robin Robertson. The production is directed by Dan Crozier and will be performed in the Gladys Mullenix Black Theatre in the Vukovich Center for Communication Arts on November 14-16 at 8 p.m. and November 17 at 2:30 p.m.

Robertson’s translation is a consciously feminist interpretation that uses contemporary language and poetry to tell the story of a betrayed wife who faces exile because of her husband’s new marriage. The play becomes a political battle between the sexes where “history is made by women just as much as men.”

Guest scenic designer Markéta Fantová has created a setting that reflects the modern world of urban decay, drawing on influences from Eastern Europe and the industrial ruins of Detroit. Miriam Patterson’s costumes and Michael Mehler’s lighting design reference the Greek origins of the play as well as the modern setting.

Company members include Maggie Boone in the title role, Austin Scales as Jason, and Alexis Eldridge, Chris Schuchert, Lee Scandinaro, Robinson Whitaker, Philippa Panayiotou, Joe Bruch and Troy Dinga. The Chorus is played by Angela Adusah, Maya Jones, Mary Lyon, Dede Nwokeafor-Laz, Autumn Parker, Autumn Vogel and Aubrey Welschcox. Medea’s children are Alexander Bakken and Joshua Mehler. Allie Condon is the stage manager.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $7.50 for non-Allegheny students, senior citizens and Allegheny employees. Although admission is free for Allegheny students with identification, they are asked to make reservations. For more information or to order tickets, contact the Playshop Theatre box office at 814-332-3414.

Photo: Maggie Boone as Medea (Photo by Bill Owen)