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Just as Eurydice and Orpheus prepare to begin their future together, tragedy strikes. In this week’s play “Eurydice,” playwright Sarah Ruhl puts the classic Greek myth in the perspective of a modern female heroine, who gets the opportunity to make a life-changing choice—defy the afterlife in the Underworld or lose her husband for eternity.

The production will run April 10-13. The performance time is 7 p.m. (Thursday-Saturday) and 2 p.m. (Sunday) at Price Theater. Run time is 90 minutes with no intermission. The show is appropriate for 12+. 

“Ruhl has beautifully woven poetry into contemporary characters with contemporary relationships,” said Director and LaGrange College Theatre Arts Professor Kim Barber Knoll. “The production is wonderfully theatrical with one surprise after another.”

After losing her own father, Ruhl added the character of Eurydice’s dad to highlight the deep bond between a parent and child. Senior Will Gray, who will perform the role, said there is a special relationship between the two characters. 

“He does everything that he can to help Eurydice remember her former life and relationships,” he said.  

Sophomore Abigail Humphries, who portrays Eurydice, said she felt a strong connection to her character because of her own strong relationship with her dad. 

“The loss of her father has affected Eurydice immensely,” she said. “She savors the chance she gets to be with him again.”

The play also explores Eurydice’s relationship with Orpheus, the legendary musician and her husband, portrayed by freshman Solomon Morgan, who will provide original music in the production.

“Orpheus loves music as much as his beloved,” he said. “And he goes to great lengths to find Eurydice.”

Senior Baylor Montoya plays the Nasty Interesting Man and Lord of the Underworld aka Hades.  

“Both characters are sneaky and seductive,” he said. “He is powerful and confident in his ability to seduce Eurydice.”

Providing the commentary and comedic relief are the three stones which Ruhl included in lieu of the traditional Greek chorus in the myth. They are played by freshmen Jeanne Haggerty, Summer Baker and Madilynn Rieke.  

Each stone (Big, Loud and Little) has their own unique personality.  

“Big Stone is the leader of the group,” Haggerty said. “It’s been interesting to figure out their perspectives and to discover how we all play off each other. The stones are like a little family.” 

“Loud Stone is sassy and determined,” Baker said. “She keeps everyone else in line.” 

“The Little Stone is the youngest and most emotional of the group,” Rieke said. “We’ve had such fun creating the dynamic between the Stones.”

Ellie Boykin, Theatre Lecturer and co-director of the play, said the modern version still holds true to the classic Greek tragedy, however Ruhl gives space for interpretation.  

“We are given the freedom to reimagine and interpret the myth in a new way,” she said. “I think this makes the show more accessible for the audience.” 

Ticket reservations are made through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eurydice-tickets-1302041734879?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

The cost is $10 for adults and free for LaGrange College faculty, staff and students. Be certain to select the appropriate ticket when given the option. Cash and checks are accepted at the door.