Sitting in journalism, Mia Hanuska and I eagerly click away at our computers, searching for optimal tickets. Satisfied with our seats, we completed our purchase. Tickets to what, you may ask? Westmont Theater’s rendition of The Odyssey, of course!
The Odyssey follows Odysseus, beloved Greek hero (played by Logan Mendelson), on his journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Unfortunately for him, his path is littered with famed sea monsters (played by Cadence Dunn) and seductive witches (Paige Hoene as Circe and Calypso played by Sophia Gologhlan), prolonging his already lengthy trip. Luckily, with the help of Athena, goddess of wisdom and strategy (played by Otra Phillips), Odysseus triumphs to reunite with his son Telemachus (played by Siddhartha Sharma) and wife Penelope (played by Kaylee Garcia).
Having seen Deadline and Being Human, I already knew I was in for a treat when I walked into the theater. Arranged like an actual amphitheater, the audience surrounded the actors as they danced, fought, and sang throughout the story. One of my favorite parts was definitely when Circe (played by Paige Hoene) and her wolves (played by Wesley Adams, Jason Rizzo, Siddartha Sharma, and Owen Smith) danced to Reneé Rapp’s “It’s Not My Fault,” Mia and I could not stop laughing at the deadpan faces on all their faces! Of course, I must mention Hermes’ (played by Emi Gruender) lovely roller skates and the obscene (yet totally warranted) amounts of glitter magically thrown around the stage, making the ancient play feel more modern and approachable. From smoke machines and trap doors, to interpretive dances and heartwarming reunions, The Odyssey has something for everyone!
All this to say, Westmont’s thespians will always exceed expectations. Make sure to buy your tickets while you still can, there are still showings on November 19, 20, 21, and 22!