Greek Tragedy Hits Greek Row In Play Premiering At UNM

The UNM Department of Theatre and Dance presents “Greek Row Tragedy,” an adaptation of “The Bacchae of Euripides,” written by award-winning playwright Mars Mráz and directed by Paul Ford, lecturer. In this modern take on a Greek classic, a chorus of sorority members sweeps across a university campus in a Dionysian frenzy.

It’s Greek Week at the University of America, and Amanda and her sisters of the Mu Nu Delta Sorority House are running out of time. The Greek Sing Showcase is tomorrow night and they still don’t have a dance routine.

Desperate to win, they seek the help of legendary dance instructor, Dean Isos. This twisted choreographer, who lost his position as “Dean of Dance” on charges of sexual misconduct, has faded into obscurity and carries with him a disdain for Americans and American popular culture. Seeing this as an opportunity to seek revenge on the university, he agrees to choreograph the routine.

On arriving at the Sorority House, he immediately takes charge and mesmerizes the Sorority Sisters with his dangerous and alluring charm. Can Peter, Amanda’s boyfriend, stop him?

Mráz, completing an M.F.A. in dramatic writing this spring, has composed original music for “Greek Row Tragedy,” blending modern hip-hop/dance beats and vocal styles with elements of ancient overtones of percussion and flutes. Graduate student Ashley Miller joins the production team as choreographer.

The play contains adult language and situations, and is recommended for mature audiences only. Shows times are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, March 5-14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m., at UNM’s Rodey Theatre, Center for the Arts. A special panel discussion will be held after the performance on Friday, March 6.

Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 faculty and seniors, or $8 UNM staff and students and are available at UNM Ticket Offices, 925-5858 or Tickets.com.

Also playing in March are Two One-Acts: “Tibetan Mountain Boat” and “Thou Art Villain,” and “Impulse,” a showcase of student choreographers. For more information, call 277-3660.