Students in Harvey’s Performing Arts Department celebrated the classics with a weekend presentation of Greek plays Feb. 3-4. The creative production of staff and student artists fabricated a replica of an ancient performance space in preparation for Margaret Atwood’s “The Penelopiad” and Aristophanes’ “The Frogs” in the Lasdon Theater of The Walker Center of the Arts.

The underclassmen performed “The Penelopiad” to capacity houses. Freshman and sophomore actors presented this haunting retelling of “The Odyssey” told from Penelope’s perspective as she lives out eternity in the underworld.  It was the perfect companion piece to the raucous, slapstick of “The Frogs” performed by the 11th and 12th-grade students, who also played to a full house. Aristophanes’ comedy delighted audiences of all ages. English teacher Virginia Holmes directed “The Penelopiad” while Chair of the Performing Arts Vinny Alexander directed “The Frogs.”

Mr. Alexander said, “I am so proud of the work our students did on these productions. The scripts were challenging and sophisticated. Our young actors rose to the occasion, delivering outstanding performances. I am also grateful to Ms. Holmes for her direction and vision on “The Penelopiad.” Our students are very lucky to work with such a gifted director and teacher.”