Set sail with UFV Theatre’s Argonautica

Experience the magic and power of one of the world’s greatest stories in this stunning stage adaptation of the voyage of Jason and the Argonauts in their quest for the Golden Fleece. Full of energy and humour, Argonautika by Mary Zimmerman runs through Nov 29 at the University of the Fraser Valley performance theatre.

“Argonautika is really an ensemble show from start to finish: everyone is playing multiple characters, so we’re working hard — but having fun too,” says director Colleen Lanki, who last helmed 2013’s The Little Mermaid for the department, “The show has goddesses, dragons, flying harpies and sailboats — how can it not be fantastic?”

Adapted from the original Greek myth by American playwright Mary Zimmerman, Argonautika is an adventure from start to finish. Jason (Luke Stevens) and his crew of Argonauts embark on a perilous journey across unknown seas, encountering giants, dragons and sorcerers in a seemingly impossible search for the elusive Fleece. Aided by a pantheon of Greek Gods (Ashley Gonzalez-Rivas, Heather Littlejohn and Ashlyn Tegg) and Hercules (Russell Blower), the Argonauts must learn to work together, seek out allies and find loyalty and commitment within themselves to triumph.

Utilizing puppets, costumes and lighting tricks, the design team hopes to capture the mythical world of the original tale.

“It’s a difficult challenge but our design and technical teams have been working hard on Argonautika over the last two months,” says Sharifi, “The students have delved into a variety of craft and technical disciplines including puppetry to make this show happen. Our set is a boat, and we are ready to sail!”

Argonautika is playing November 12 – 29 at the UFV performance theatre, located at 45635 Yale Rd in Chilliwack. Information on specific performance dates and ticket prices can be found on the UFV Theatre website at ufv.ca/theatre or by calling 604-795-2814. Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or in person at the theatre box office.