Inspired by the historical pageantry movement of the early 1900s—known for blending mass spectacle with community engagement—this final work in deBessonet and Almond’s grand trilogy reimagines the Greek epic with Public Works’ signature blend of professional actors, community members and special guests. Man-eating Cyclops, a sorceress that turns sailors to beasts and the deadly sweet song of the Sirens explode onto the stage with spectacular numbers in this joyful, larger-than-life musical about finding your way home—no matter where fate may lead you. Conceived and directed by Public Works Director, Lear deBessonet, the premiere production of THE ODYSSEY showcased 200 New Yorkers from all five boroughs, who shared the stage with professional actors and community partners.
THE ODYSSEY is Homer’s epic of Odysseus’ 10-year struggle to return home after the Trojan War. While Odysseus battles mystical creatures and faces the wrath of the gods, his wife, Penelope and his son, Telemachus stave off suitors vying for Penelope’s hand and Ithaca’s throne long enough for Odysseus to return.
THE ODYSSEY
Written by HOMER
Conceived and Directed by LEAR DEBESSONET
Book, Music and Lyrics by TODD ALMOND
Originally commissioned and produced by The Public Theatre
Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director
Patrick Willingham, Executive Director
This adaptation of THE ODYSSEY first premiered at The Old Globe in San Diego in 2011.
ODYSSEUS (M): King of Ithaca. Hero of the Trojan War
*The following two characters can be played by the same actor:
PENELOPE (F): Odysseus’ wife
CIRCE (F): Beautiful witch goddess
CYCLOPS (M): One eyed giant, living in a cave. Cannibal
THE SINGER (M/F): Narrator along with CALLIOPES (back-up singers)
CALLIOPES: (M/F): Back-up singers. Usually with THE SINGER
TELEMACHUS (M): Odysseus’ son. Prince of Ithaca. Early 20’s
ATHENA-CHOIR (M/F): Goddess of war (A mixed gospel choir)
ANTINOUS (M): mean-spirited suitor vying for PENELOPE’s affection and the throne, assuming ODYSSEUS is dead
EURYNOME (F): Nurse-maiden to PENELOPE
PRINCE (M): Of the Phaecians. Brother to PRINCESS NAUSICAA
PRINCESS NAUSICAA (F): Princess of PHAECIA, Sister to PRINCE
ODYSSEUS’ men/companions:
ELPENOR:
DANIEL
NEOPTOLEMUS
PERICLYMINUS
POLYPHIDES
HALITHESUS
THEOCLYMINUS
PHILOCTETES
ICMALIUS
Optional Cameo Groups:
Gospel choir
Drum corps
Youth Symphony (orchestra parts available upon request)
Children’s theatre group
Hip-hop dance crew
Flamenco dance group
5 Civilian Cameos: In the original production these were Firefighters, Pizza delivery men, Park rangers, Taxi Drivers
DUDE (m): Random man with PRINCE & PRINCESS, Plays guitar
MENTOR (m): Mentor to Odysseus
LITTLE GIRL
5 Musicians
Piano/Conductor (Keyboard 1)
Bass (Electric)
Guitar 1 (Mandolin, Acoustic, Electric)
Guitar 2 (Electric, Acoustic)
Percussion (Drum set, electric drum pad, hand drums)
*OPTIONAL: Clarinet in Bb, Soprano Saxophone, Trumpet I & II