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Theater concepts coexist in YSU’s ‘Medea’
By STEPHANIE OTTEY
YOUNGSTOWN
Youngstown State University Theater likes to use a wide range of styles and methods to give students a broad understanding of the craft. This season, it put all of those methods and styles into one show: “Medea.”
Directed by W. Rick Schilling, who used Robinson Jeffers’ translation of Euripides’ Greek tragedy, “Medea” is a collage of theatrical concepts. In his director’s notes, Schilling explains that he found inspiration in the theatrical theories of Robert Wilson and Ping Chong, who believe that all aspects of production are equal, and the text should not be given special attention. This production clearly follows that school of thought.
Schilling also embraces the idea of juxtaposition, mixing a classical text and conventions with contemporary costumes and music. The music of Adele and Maroon 5 shares the stage with masks and puppets, creating a strange exhibition of theater history.
The set, lights and costumes create a stimulating visual picture on stage. John Murphy’s use of silhouette in his lighting design is fascinating and creative, greatly enhancing the drama of the play. The set, also designed by Murphy, is an interesting canvas for his lighting design. Primarily white, the pillars, steps, scaffolding and wall of plastic that comprise the set are imposing, but not cluttered.
The costumes by Jane Shanabarger and Masako Hayashi are integral to the show. Their design spans centuries and continents, with Roman, Japanese and contemporary influences.
All of this grandeur is used to tell a relatively simple story of a woman’s heartbreak and her tormented quest for revenge. With all of this spectacle, the actors could easily be overlooked, but the cast works to be noticed.
Kathie Steeb as the Nurse narrates with an emotional connection and shows great promise as a classical actor.
Courtney Auman is remarkable in the title role, balancing her character emotionally and physically. Donning mile-high platforms and wearing an equally high headdress while traversing a multi-leveled set, Auman is physically caught in what could easily be an actress’s nightmare. She rises to the occasion, however, in a balancing act worthy of Olympic gold. Her physical presence on stage is grand and regal, and her dramatic performance matches. She creates a Medea that is majestically deranged in her heartbreak, exactly what Euripides intended.
Daniel Paul Temelkoff (Jason) and Matt Malloy (King Aegus) are overshadowed by their costumes. The contemporary garb lessens the potency of their roles. Considering the strong role aesthetics play in this production, it’s possible the choice was made to weaken the male characters and therefore make the females even stronger.
“Medea” runs through March 4. Call 330-941-3105.