A haunting new immersive experience is about to take over a historic venue in Toronto, transforming the space into Ancient Greece for a daring retelling of a story we all know.
The name Medusa conjures an immediate mental image for almost everyone. There’s something about the vengeful, snake-haired gorgon who can petrify a person with a glance that captures the imagination and refuses to let it go.
From depictions in classic art, film, comics and, of course, the iconic Versace logo, Medusa is a cultural figure we just can’t seem to shake.
However familiar you may consider yourself with the mythical figure, though, Ophis, the new immersive theatrical experience from Toronto’s Transcen|Dance Project, might just change the way you think of her forever.
Taking over the Great Hall for a limited, seven-night run, the show allows you to — quite literally — step into the world of Medusa and Greek mythology to experience her story like never before.
Starring an illustrious cast of actors, dancers and artists and backed by a sultry score by award-winning Canadian composer Owen Belton, you’ll be able to explore the many rooms, hallways and sweeping spaces of The Great Hall at your own pace as the story unfolds.
You may even have the chance to interact with characters (or they may choose to interact with you) making you, the viewer, an integral part of the story.
Think Punchdrunk’s iconic Sleep No More in New York City, or even Transcen|Dance’s own Eve of St. George, which played to consistently sold-out audiences during its run last year.
Where St. George was an exploration of Dracula described as “equal parts unnerving and seductive,” Ophis challenges a story we’ve all often been told or shown in media but that, quite possibly, few of us are deeply familiar with.
Depicted with what’s described as a “modern twist,” the show is intended to be equal parts entertaining and thought-provoking, reframing the traditional notions of identity and power dynamics that typically accompany such mythological fables.
“Medusa is a story we all recognize, yet has many interpretations,” says Julia Cratchley, the Artistic Director of Transcen|Dance Project.
“At its heart, it’s a complex story about beauty, resilience, punishment, and betrayal. I’m thrilled for audiences to experience our version and the surprising twists that may leave them questioning everything they thought they knew about the myth.”
The show kicks off at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 4, and runs on select dates through Sunday, April 13.
Tickets start at $65 for general admission and are now on sale through Eventbrite.
If Ophis promises to draw anywhere near the intrigue and interest of its Transcen|Dance predecessors, you’ll want to scoop your ticket up quickly.
Jesse Milns, of Eve of St. George.
