An Iliad Review: David Wenham Excels in Sydney's Contemporary Homer Adaptation
David Wenham stars in the Sydney Theatre Company's production of An Iliad, bringing a modern twist to Homer's ancient epic. This play, directed by Damien Ryan and designed by Charles Davis, transforms a bare warehouse stage into a makeshift theatre for 100 minutes, using minimal props like a suitcase of sand and portable lights to evoke the atmosphere of oral storytelling traditions.
A Fresh Take on an Ancient Tale
Unlike the original Iliad, which focuses on battles and tragedy, this adaptation by Lisa Peterson and Denis O'Hare emphasizes the act of storytelling itself. It condenses over 6,000 lines into a narrative filled with contemporary references, including an updated list of wars ending with "Iran, US, Israel." Wenham plays the world-weary Poet, who narrates the tale with a mix of sly charm and jocular vernacular, making the horrors of war more accessible through humour.
Helen Svoboda, a triple-threat composer, singer, and double bass player, joins Wenham on stage. She creates a haunting soundscape using her instrument and voice, adding depth to the emotional weight of the story. Her solemn presence balances Wenham's affability, though at times, his natural comedic style risks overshadowing the play's darker moments.
Balancing Humour and Drama
The production faces challenges in blending humour with serious themes. On opening night, audience laughter sometimes interrupted poignant scenes, such as when the Poet laments, "Every time I sing this song, I hope it's the last time." This reflects the play's struggle to maintain emotional intensity without undercutting it with comic asides.
However, when the performers delve into the heart of the story, the impact is profound. For instance, as Wenham describes Andromache's grief over Hector's death, Svoboda's wailing evokes raw emotion, highlighting the human cost of war in a way words alone cannot.
The Power of Oral Storytelling
At its best, An Iliad captures the magic of masterful oral storytelling, allowing audiences to visualize scenes and feel the disorienting effects of battle through creative sound and minimal staging. It serves as a poignant reminder of war's intolerable human toll, making it a thought-provoking experience for theatregoers.
The show runs at Wharf 1 Theatre in Sydney until 21 June, offering a unique blend of ancient epic and modern relevance that resonates with contemporary audiences.
