Windward Community College and Hawaiʻi Conservatory of Performing Arts present Medea / Antigone Now, directed by Taurie Kinoshita, at Palikū Theatre from April 26 through May 5.

This new adaptation of Medea by Tadashi Kerren is based on the mythic characters from Euripides’ classic tale. The story explores revenge and emotional responses to oppression. Medea sacrifices her family, her country, and her friends to help her husband Jason become a great hero. Two children later, Jason leaves Medea for another woman, breaking his vows and standing silently as she is cast out of the country she made her own. The story is told through flashbacks, combat scenes and humor, all while touching on issues of immigration.

Antigone Now by Melissa Cooper is inspired by Sophocles’ Antigone, presenting an updated version of the myth where a woman sacrifices her life to take action against an unjust law. In this adaptation, Antigone considers the struggle between universal human rights and the arbitrary laws of society.

“Though I chose these plays because of their relevance and timelessness, they’re also extremely moving…we don’t expect very many dry eyes!” said Kinoshita.

The play is recommended for ages 16+ and runs approximately 2 hours.