TheatreUNCA combines Ancient Greece with Appalachia in adaptation of “Elektra”

Travel through a familiar mountain backdrop while exploring an Ancient Greek tale as you've never seen it before, with TheatreUNCA's spring production of "Elektra."

Taken from a script translated by UNC Asheville's Ancient Mediterranean Studies Department, and adapted to a 17-century Appalachian setting by director Aaron Snook, this production aims to spark a conversation around the cycles of violence that inherited hate produces. The show will also feature original songs written by students in UNC Asheville's Music Department, making it a true collaboration from start to finish.

Performances will take place April 20-23, 2023, inside UNC Asheville's Carol Belk Theatre. Tickets for "Elektra" are $15 for general admission, $10 for faculty and staff, and $5 for students, and are available for purchase through OnTheStage.

Director Aaron Snook looks forward to the audience's moment of realization that this wasn't the play they were expecting. "We're bringing the story closer to home and infusing it with roots music in an effort to decrease the distance between the audience and Ancient Greece," he said.

In addition to the unique collaborative aspect, "Elektra" will feature a rare set design that includes a pit in the stage meant for actors.

"I believe this to be the most complex set I have been a part of since coming to UNC Asheville," said sophomore stage manager Shel Sammis, who has been a part of five TheatreUNCA productions so far. "I am excited to see how the finished product looks interacting with the performers and the audience."

Performances for "Elektra" will occur as follows:

• April 20-22, 7:30 p.m.

• April 23 at 2 p.m.

To purchase tickets, visit https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/theatreunca/6419ff417728270e45efdf7c

For more information, visit drama.unca.edu/engage/theatreunca/ or contact TheatreUNCA's box office at 828-232-2291 or [email protected].