Ancient Greek play to be performed in St Albans’ Roman theatre

TheByte presents classic Greek comedy The Birds at the Roman Theatre of Verulamium (Image: Archant)

Best Theatre Arts’ junior section, The Byte, will be flying high in the beautiful surroundings of the Roman Theatre of Verulanium, as they present Aristophanes’ classic Greek comedy The Birds on Monday, July 17 and Tuesday, July 18 at 7.30pm.

This 2,000-year-old play tells the story of two Athenians, worn down and fed up with the inequalities and pressures of city life, and their search for a simpler way of living.

Their journey takes them away from the city of Athens and brings them to the king of the birds.

Together, they create Cloud Cuckoo Land, a new world where the birds are more powerful than humans and the Athenians are more powerful than the gods, than Zeus himself even.

But is it possible to create the perfect world? Or is that just cloud cuckoo land?

And what do the gods themselves have to say about it?

This production is based on Don Zilidis’ modern adaptation and unites the timeless elements of Greek comedy with a range of music, song and physical theatre.

A lively, passionate and vocal chorus takes the audience on a hilarious and satirical look at politics, religion and the foolishness of humankind that powerfully resonates with current political events.

Lisa Schulberg, co-director of the production, said of the play: “It’s a fast and funny adaptation of a fabulous story, performed by a hugely talented cast in a gorgeous setting.

“What’s not to like?”

Tickets cost £12 full, and £8 concessions.

• Tickets are available at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ovo