Copenhagen’s Betty Nansen Theatre has premiered a bold and daring adaptation of “The Iliad”, featuring a talented ensemble cast and creative collaborations between director Eline Arbo, writer/dramaturg Tom Silkeberg, and composer Thijs van Vuure. Director Eline Arbo and writer/dramaturg Tom Silkeberg have used an existing Danish translation of the story. The production focuses on the complex issue of masculinity and power. While some conventions of the play are still evident, the production is brave, innovative and offers a fresh take on the ancient Greek epic.
Fresh Perspective
The production offers a subversion of the traditional “Greek (war) hero” archetype, revealing the rhetorical heroism that conceals fear and cowardice, soldierly naivety, power-seeking and male grief over various kinds of loss. The standout performance in the production is Ena Spottag’s portrayal of Hektor, a complex character who is tough but pure-hearted.
Innovative Visuals and Music
The production offers more than just fresh perspectives on the ancient story, however. The production’s set design and costuming choices are equally provocative. The set design is visually striking, featuring a crumbling abattoir that is suggestively decrepit. Ida Marie Ellekilde’s costume choices are also notable, crossing haute couture with elements of work clothes, and subtle hints of goth rock or metal.
Composer Thijs van Vuure collaborated with Arbo to create a music fully integrated into the production. The acting ensemble also performs as singers/musicians throughout the show, adding to the production’s innovative flair. Audiences can look forward to an even more thrilling musical performance on April 15th, when the all-female Danish death metal band Konvent will take to the stage as part of the Roskilde Festival, promising a rousing musical performance that will be a highlight of the show. The band’s performance will be a fitting addition to the already bold and boundary-pushing production of “The Iliad”.
Overall, the production is a fresh and engaging interpretation of a classic work of literature, tuoching risky themes and offering impressive visual imagery. Thanks to the strong playing of the actors and the creative collaboration of the director, screenwriter and composer, The Iliad at the Betty Nansen Theater is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary theatre.
