On Saturday, February 6th, The Washington University Classics Department will commemorate and celebrate a groundbreaking performance of Plautus’ comedy Rudens by our university’s Ladies’ Literary Society in 1884. The core of that celebration will be lectures and a Zoom performance of a translation of the play produced by members of the society. Henry Schott will direct the production. If you would like a role in the production, or if you have any questions, contact Henry at henry.j.schott@wustl.edu.

Plot

A fisherman drew up from the sea with his net a chest, which contained the trinkets of his master's daughter, who, having been stolen in her youth, was now owned by a slave-dealer. Thrown ashore in a shipwreck, she came without her knowledge under the protection of her own father. She was recognized and married to her lover Plesidippus.

Dramatis Personae

Arcturus • A divinity who delivers the Prologue

Daemones • A young Athenian living in Cyrene

Sceparnio • Slave of Daemones

Gripus • Slave of Daemones

Turbalio • Slave of Daemones

Sparax • Slave of Daemones

Labrax • Slave dealer

Plesidippus • Young Athenian in love with Palaestra

Trachalio • Slave of Plesidippus

Charmides• Parasite/Guest of Labrax

Palaestra • Slave of Labrax, daughter of Daemones

Ameplisca • Slave of Labrax, friend of Palaestra

Ptolemocratia • Priestess of Venus

Chorus • A number of Fishermen in Cyrene

Target Rehearsal Dates: Jan. 2, 2021-Feb.5, 2021

Anticipated Commitment: 1-2 hours/ week

This production will be held over Zoom rather than in person to accommodate the ongoing COV!D-19 pandemic. No previous acting experience necessary. Vocal dynamism preferred. Ethernet connections strongly encouraged.

Please contact henry.j.schott@wustl.edu by December 18, 2020 to express interest in joining this project.