Amazing and Horrifying

Classics students had the chance to watch the Greek Tragedy, Medea, performed in the round at the West End’s newest theatre, @SohoPlace, on Tuesday 7 March.

Starring Sophie Okonedo and Ben Daniels, Medea tells the story of a woman laid bare by grief and rage, and her terrible quest for revenge against the men who have abandoned her. The trip was a fantastic opportunity to immerse our students in the foundations of Greek culture and witness a rich and thrilling modern performance.

Year 12 student Kate said:

“The play was both amazing and horrifying - as any production of Medea should be! The actress who played Medea was incredibly talented, and I was very impressed that they managed to create rain on stage. As Medea was one of the first Greek plays I ever read, and remains my favourite to this day, I feel really lucky to have been able to see it brought to life like this.”

Dr Shomit Dutta said:

“Medea is perhaps the most frequently performed Greek tragedy. Its themes, which include marital conflict, race and domestic violence, remain acutely relevant and resonant. This production with the brilliant Sophie Okonedu has had fantastic reviews across the board. While Medea is not being taught this year, it is a riveting play that informs and enriches our understanding of the plays that we are studying in Classics, including Oedipus and The Bacchae.”

Find out more about studying Classical Languages and Classical Civilisation at Alleyn’s.