PlayLab Readings 1999-2000

THE AENEID

October 18, 1999

Adapted by H.R. Coursen from the original by Virgil

The Orlando-UCF Shakespeare Festival's PlayLab continues its series with a stunning new adaptation of Virgil's The Aneid by H.R. Coursen, Monday, October 18th. The two-and-a-half hour program begins at 7:00 PM at the Orange County Historical Museum Theatre, Loch Haven Park. Admission is free.

Author and journalist, H.R. Coursen, has been working on his new translations of the Roman epic for many years. Drawing from ancient variations of the story as well as modern scholarly works, he has fashioned a uniquely lyrical and passionate theatre piece. In transforming the classic epic poem into this new version for the stage, Mr. Coursen sought to dramatize the struggle between Aeneas' heroic mission (given him by the gods) and the human being assigned to accomplish it. The founding of the Roman Empire depends upon the outcome.

Professional actors from the company of the Orlando-UCF Shakespeare Festival will be participating in the reading: Richard Width, Richard B. Watson, Jenna Ware, Tom Taylor, Stephanie Roberts, Mandi Moss, Scott Hodges, Eric Hissom, Sarah Hankins, Michael Dressel, and Jonathan Croy.

The Aneid will be read on October 18th at 7:00 PM. The Orange County Historical Museum is located at 812 E. Rollins Street, in Orlando-Loch Haven Park. There is free parking, and the theatre is handicapped-accessible.  Reservations are not necessary. The PlayLab series continues monthly through next April. For a detailed calendar listing all events, please contact Eric Hissom at (407) 893-4600 ext. 242.

Discussion Questions

1. Who is the central character?
2. What is the central character's dominant need?
3. What is the major conflict or dilemma?
4. What is the dramatic premise or theme?
5. Are the characters' voices distinct?
6. Is the play active?  (Is there a sense of urgency?  Does the story unfold dramatically, primarily in the present tense?)
7. How might the theme of this play manifest itself in contemporary society?  Does it apply to your life?

                                                                 Last Updated: 05/06/2007                    Copyright Orlando Shakespeare Theater