St. Scholastica Theatre opens with modern twist on a classic

St. Scholastica Theatre resumes live, in-person performances with the season opener “The Frogs: A Modern Adaptation” by Don Zolidis, beginning Nov. 5.

In this modern adaptation of Aristophanes’ classic satire, Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and festivities, attempts to raise the level of public discourse by retrieving Shakespeare from the underworld. Frustrated with the current state of the entertainment industry, Dionysus enlists the help of his servant Xanthias on a quest to restore some culture — and help land Shakespeare an HBO series deal. Hilarity ensues when, not far into their journey, they are captured by a chorus of demonic, reality television-obsessed … frogs. Celebrity culture takes center stage with some appearances by Hercules, Charon and Jane Austen herself.

The show is directed by Dr. Tammy Ostrander, a professor in the Communication, Theatre and Art department. She acknowledges that while some people may have a general misconception about classical Greek plays, Zolidis’ modern adaptation improves on the original by being more action oriented and less dialogue driven.

“The Frogs is really quite funny and fast paced,” Ostrander said. “Both acts run less than one hour and still retain the social commentary about the quality of our entertainment we tend to consume.” She also notes it is a kid-friendly production.

Evening performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6-11 and 12-13. Sunday matinees will be at 2 p.m. on Nov. 7 and 14. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for Scholastica students with ID and free for Sisters of the St. Scholastica Monastery.

Next on the St. Scholastica stage: “Little Shop of Horrors” by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, opening Feb. 24, 2022.