Category: The Penelopiad

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

I play the role of Penelope who is such a fascinating character to portray. There is so much about her life that is out of her control and for the first time we are able to see how intelligent and self-determined she has to be in order to survive. However, we also get a glimpse of this other side of Penelope that’s wonderfully executed through the twelve maids: how her actions not only negatively impacted herself but also the other women around her.

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

There is so much to this story! There’s love, danger, sadness and even laughter. The greatest thing about this play is that it draws you in. Even those familiar with the Odyssey will be pleasantly surprised as this play offers a new perspective to such a classic tale, which really shapes the narrative.

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

By far the cast! Everyone working on this has shown such a level of commitment and support that just really makes it a fun and comfortable space to work in.  

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Have faith in yourself. I think we worry too much about making the wrong decisions, but sometimes those decisions lead us down interesting paths we never would have pursued in the first place.

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

I would have to say Penelope. I had initially considered her a fairly one-dimensional character, but since getting the opportunity to play her my opinion on her has changed dramatically. She’s witty and headstrong. In The Penelopiad, she’s given agency by suggesting that her actions were not just out of devotion for Odysseus, but strategic moves to keep herself and her son alive.

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

I am directing The Penelopiad. If the play is a ship, I’m the captain! I’m lucky to have an amazing crew to help guide it to our destination – Opening Night! There’s a lot involved on my side, from creative vision, to casting, to scheduling and running rehearsals and helping the cast be ready to perform. Each show is different and The Penelopiad is a fantastic challenge as it has songs, fight and intimacy, as well as sections of choral speech.

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

It’s a terrifically accessible version of the story of Penelope, Odysseus’ wife, and her maids who helped her while she waited for him to return. It also remains incredibly relevant today as it examines a woman’s story, told by women. Though there are dark moments that are challenging, there is also a great deal of humour and humanity.

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

When presented with a script with “songs” but no accompanying music, I wrote the tunes with my son, Gibson. This has been a terrific joy! 

I’m also enjoying working with an all-female cast who are getting to show off their fabulous talent as they tell this story. The care and passion everyone is putting into the work is truly a gift.

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Hmmm… probably to work out more, and maybe to return to teaching sooner, but it’s hard to call because wrong turns have likely led to other good things I might not have.

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

I always liked Athena as she seemed to make good choices and didn’t seem to be up to much nonsense like her brothers. I’m also a fan of Owls, so there’s that!

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

Assistant Director. It’s my role to support Kristen in bringing her artistic vision to life. There’s a lot intangibles to this role and opportunities to grow in different areas of the theatre

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

Because we have an incredibly talented cast of women working hard to bring the story of Penelopiad to life. The play tackles relevant themes that women of Greece and women throughout history have faced.

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

Everyday coming to the theatre has been an absolute joy. It has been great seeing Janine Waddell support and mentor individuals in the realm of intimacy and stage fighting.

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Be kinder to yourself and life is about the journey not the destination.

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

Hercules is a story that continues to be retold. There’s many different versions of his story told through time and in pop culture. I tend to gravitate towards his story and the elements of his humanity explored within Greek mythology.

What is your name?

Lisa Simone Swaren

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

Assistant Stage Manager/Dresser, I provide direct assistance to the cast and crew to ensure all aspects of the production run smoothly.

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

This Margaret Atwood piece expertly reveals many shocking and fascinating vantage points of the females within an ancient and well-known tale of epic proportions.

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

Seeing women in the roles of powerful men provides a fresh perspective that isn’t otherwise possible.

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Advice to my younger self would include: the request to never lose traction, and always schedule regular self-care! I agree with Einstein, who said, “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

I admire Ariadne for concocting glamorously creative rescue solutions and having a heart overflowing with love.

What is your name?

Katie Corrigan

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

I play Maid 1, whose name is Tanis. She doesn’t say much, but what she does say often has a humorous tone. As part of the Ensemble, I also play a sailor, a duck, a monster, a cow, and a ship. I have had a lot of fun playing a variety of different roles.

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

It’s a classic tale, but with an emphasis on those who don’t typically have a voice. I think it’s a very important and eye-opening story, and portrayed (in my humble opinion) in a creative and engaging way.

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

Of course getting to work with a fantastic cast and crew! I’ve especially enjoyed working on the songs and watching them develop and take form, especially because there are no predetermined notes in the script!

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Take risks! Yes, it is “a dangerous thing, going out your front door,” but some of the best experiences I’ve had have been because I learned to survive my initial discomfort.

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

I like Artemis. She can get outshone by her brother Apollo but she’s very fierce and powerful in her own way. She is a chaste huntress who dances in the woods and is the protector of girls and women.

What is your name?

Colleen Allen

What is your role on The Penelopiad? 

I play Laertes, Odysseus’ dad, a suitor and a maid. Laertes used to have his own adventures as a younger man but now mutters about goats and trees.

Why should audiences come to see The Penelopiad?

Honestly this production has a bit of everything: comedy, foot races, schoolyard taunts, pirate ditties, violence and nurturing. And lots of quick costume changes. And did I mention ducks?

What would you say would be a highlight of working on The Penelopiad so far?

The challenge of the material. I’m on this journey of exploration with the most supportive and talented cast and crew. I can’t believe how lucky I am to be a part of this.

In the play, Penelope reflects upon her life and her choices. Looking back, if you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

You are enough. Yes – you’re weird and different but that doesn’t mean you’re wrong. You will find your people and it will be marvelous.

Who is your favourite figure in Greek mythology, and why?

Artemis and Athena. Artemis balances the feminine energy of the moon with the masculine energy of the hunt. And I am lucky to have a real live Athena in my life who is truly one of the wisest souls I know.