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Jason & (Medea)
by Jessica Shoemaker
Directed by Janet Howe
[June 20 - July 7, 2013]
with (re)discover theatre
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“crafted with care and detail as it incorporates not only a mix of contemporary dialogue, heightened stage movement, and a poetic flair, but also gives audiences a fresh approach to this oft-told tale” - Chicago Theater Beat
"ambitious...mashes up...movement theater, poetic realism, and psychological naturalism—creating many arresting moments" - Chicago Reader
Jason & (Medea) follows the story of Medea from the moment she meets Jason up until she’s about to make the choice to kill her child. I came to Jessica with the idea for this play because I was interested in humanizing a female character who is often demonized. When sharing Medea’s full story and all she gave up for Jason, her anger feels well founded and relatable. In this production, I incorporated movement based story telling and puppetry. Audiences were sat on two sides of the playing space creating an intimate experience. I also set this show up to be offered for free, making it fiscally accessible.
CAST:
Bridget Schreiber: Medea
Alex Thompson: Jason
Shariba Rivers: Chalciope/Creon
Erika Lecaj: Atalanta
Mark Lancaster: Heracles/Pelias
Kyle Geissler: Heller
Kelly Amshoff: The Princess
CREATIVE:
Jessica Shoemaker: Playwright
Janet Howe: Director
Aaron Pagel: Fight Director
Cassy Schillo: Props Designer/Assistant Director
Laura Wiley: Lighting Designer
Matthew Wills: Sound Designer
Sotirios Livaditis: Set Designer
Sarah Jo White: Costume Designer
Kelly Schmidt: Hair and Makeup Designer
Danielle Whaley: Production Manager
Jean E. Compton: Stage Manager
Ann Kreitman: Assistant Stage Manager