Fall 1992 215 Agamemnon and Theatre Du Soleil
Fall 1992 215 Agamemnon and Theatre du Soleil: an Eclectic Mixture. Théâtre of the Soleil. Paris, France. May, 1991. Théâtre du Soleil, under the guidance of Ariane Mnouchkine, has in its 28 years of existence gained international status as a leading edge experimental theatre company. This French troupe boldly explores a variety of styles, sources, aesthetics, and subject matter to create a rich vibrant, colorful, theatre experience. They freely mix styles and conventions together to achieve a brand of theatre that is uniquely their own. The company's 1991 production of Agamemnon by Aeschylus, directed by Mnouchkine, combines remnants of classical Greek settings; Kabuki movements, costumes, and makeup to make a strong contemporary feminist statement. By looking at 1) this specific production, 2) the company's creative process, 3) their origin and structure, 4) their production history, 5) the philosophy that anchors their style, a deeper Understanding of Théâtre du SoleiPs rich aesthetic can be reached. Agamemnon is presented as part of a trilogy entitled Les Atrides. Two other plays, Iphigenie a Aulis and Les Choéphores perform in repertory with Agamemnon. These three works represent the body of Théâtre du Soleil's 1990-91 season. The text was translated from the original Greek to French by Mnouchkine and Hélène Cixous, a noted French feminist and playwright. Agamemnon tells the story of a wife's vengeance on her husband, the king, as he returns victorious from Troy. Clytemnestra has not forgiven him for the sacrifice of their daughter, Iphegenia, or for bringing with him his lover Cassandra. Clytemnestra with her lover, Egisthus, plots to take over power.
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