Photo by Thee Photo Ninja
Live theater is supposed to either move you or entertain you. Bash of the Titans at freeFall Theatre entertains you in the wildest, most fascinating way, from the first opening musical number to the final bows.
The story of Perseus is an ancient Greek tale familiar to everyone. He is the offspring of Zeus and Danae of Argos, and was cast into the sea with his mother because his grandfather had been warned that his grandson would kill him. They washed ashore on Seriphus where he grew into a handsome young man. The story tells how he rescued Andromeda from the Kraken by using Medusa’s head to turn the monster to stone. But this is not just a simple telling of this story.
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A Parody with a Modern Twist
It’s actually a parody of Clash of the Titans using 22 modern songs with new lyrics to bring the story into the 20th century. The songs include “Like a Virgin” (Madonna), “You’re So Vain” (Carly Simon) and “Eye of the Tiger” (Survivor). Now, the music is familiar and wonderful, the singing is powerful, but the technical presentation is astounding. From the costuming to the witch’s eye to the flying horse you will be enthralled by the impact this work has on the story. And the story is funny, too.
Under the direction of Eric Davis and Michael Raabe (music) the gods introduce you to the petty jealousies that strive to bring down Perseus (Taylor Harley). Zeus (Matthew McGee) protects his son from the evil intentions of Thetis (Heather Baird), whose son Calibos (Victor Chan) is in love with Andromeda (Kathlynn Rodin). Aphrodite (Kissy Simmons) uses her powers, including magic swords and shields, to help Perseus behead Medusa and save the day.
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Photo by Thee Photo Ninja
But it’s not just lights and music that make this play worth seeing. The costumes are spectacular, ranging from gorgeous gowns to the horns and claws of Calibos. Beyond these technical aspects are the performers’ talents. Their voices harmonize with passion and power. Their stage interactions are flawless. Additionally, their entrances and exits are perfectly timed, keeping the flow sweeping across the stage. Best of all is their ability to draw the audience into the action. It is impossible to say which of these actors is the lead. They are all magnificent in their singing and choreography. The use of live musicians adds an element of action that moves the story swiftly.
This production is a single act with no intermission, which is good because the intensity of the story and performances would seriously suffer if interrupted. This parody/musical is well worth the trip to Central Avenue.
See Bash of the Titans at freeFall
freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Through Aug. 2. Wed.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m. freefalltheatre.com, 727-498-5205.
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