Coriolanus: One Bad-Ass Momma’s Boy

People can be … complicated. Take Caius Martius Coriolanus, a Roman general known for his ability to fight in wartime. Heralded as a hero, his mother Volumnia encourages him to run for consul (high office).

Coriolanus is a fighter, not a politician (although he has the ego for both). However, he’s also a bona fide momma’s boy, so he agrees. Things eventually go awry, since he’s against the notion of popular rule, likening it to that of allowing “crows to peck the eagles.” Complicated political intrigue and relationships between sworn enemies take place, resulting in a bloody outcome and disaster for all.

Now, Coriolanus is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare early in the 17th century. Last Saturday, your Hedonista attended the Seattle Shakespeare Company’s version of this play as media. (NOTE: After serious review of some 50+ applicants, this theatre company recently selected its own George Mount at their new (permanent) Artistic Director. Mount founded the Wooden O productions back in 1994, which merged with the Seattle Shakespeare Company in 2008.)

For me, this was the first time I ever saw this play performed; I was surprised to see the modernity of the setting; from the Dune-like hockey-gear-meets-recycled-laptop-case armor to uniforms that resemble something Che Guevara would have worn during the Cuban Revolution. The actors are strong and convincing. In sum, this is a play of war-and-politics, with ample stage blood in the final scene, it’s worth a look-see if these topics are up your alley.

Coriolanus runs January 4th through the 29th, 2012. at the Center House Theatre. Tickets range from $22/$25 (senior/student) to $32/$38 a piece, depending on the time of the performance. Post Play “Q&A” discussions take place throughout the month; the remaining ones will be held on January 12th and 15th.

Note: In order to comply with FTC Act 16 C.F.R. 255, Heed the Hedonist would like to disclose that it does receive media “comps” and/or media discounts – but not in exchange for favorable coverage, or for withholding unfavorable overage, of the given venue/meal/performance/product/service.