Reviewed by Mer Weinhold. Mer is an Ottawa-dwelling writer, editor, reviewer, and costuming enthusiast. You can follow them on Twitter.
The Iliad for Dummies
by Lauriane Lehoullier, Julie Malenfant & Valérie Soares
Table Théâtre
55 min / Comedy, Object Theatre, Puppet / Mature
When I think of Homer’s The Iliad, I think of dry discussions about the subtleties of translating Ancient Greek. The Iliad for Dummies is not that kind of play. As advertised, it’s a version of the story that’s been vulgarized (in every possible sense).
Despite having puppets, this show is not appropriate for children. There’s ample swearing in both English and French, sometimes to punctuate the dialogue and sometimes just for flavour. The performance had the feeling of children putting on a show with their toys, or friends trying to tell you a complicated story at a party – improvised dialogue, short scenes, and scattered nonlinear storytelling. (There’s even a flashback within a flashback.) All the characters are represented with different household objects, from mugs to clothespins to a cocktail shaker.
Being familiar with the original story, it was impressive to see how thoroughly The Iliad for Dummies included the full cast of characters, their actions, and their motivations. It’s a complicated story to follow, and some audience members lost the narrative thread at various points.
The performers have delightful chemistry, though it’s filtered through the characters they play. There’s a silly mood throughout the play, and no opportunity for a joke is missed. However, loud, crude, broad humour can fall flat if you’re not prepared for almost a full hour of it. I enjoyed the beginning of the show, but about 20 minutes in there was a gratuitous transphobic joke that soured the humour for me. Never a slow moment – there’s also a risk of being hit by a nerf dart or water gun during one battle scene.
If all this sounds like a fun, lively time, it’s worth checking out. The ending is surprisingly educational, with an explanation of the differences between the original Homeric text and popularized versions of The Iliad. Otherwise, those of more delicate sensibilities may be overwhelmed or put off by such a large serving of high-energy vulgarity.
The Iliad for Dummies is playing at La Nouvelle Scène (333 King Edward Ave) until Sunday June 18, 2017. Tickets cost $12 online and at the door. Visit ottawafringe.com for the show schedule and box office info. Apt613 is trying to see every show on opening weekend of the 2017 Ottawa Fringe Festival. Read more reviews at apt613.ca/fringe.
.gif)
