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A man in a black tank top and sweatpants checks his wristwatch on a theater stage

Icarus: A Modern Myth on Stage

Corlew Karla

Edwin Sanchez’s play, Icarus, masterfully directed by Peter Marston Sullivan, breathes life into a captivating mythological tale. It captivated audiences from June 24 to July 24, 2011 at Theater Wit.

Plot Overview: A Riveting Interplay of Dreams and Reality

The tale unfolds in a vacant beachfront residence where a group of disparate individuals, each bearing their own scars, seek the elusive. Among them is the peculiar Mr. Ellis, who supposedly carries a bag filled with dreams, “the Gloria”, a fallen screen star clinging to her former glory, and Beau, a vagabond hiding behind a ski mask. Primitivo, a wheelchair-bound young man with unwavering optimism, dreams of becoming famous by swimming to the point where the ocean meets the rising sun. All these characters, navigating this dream-like narrative, must unearth the true meaning of beauty.

Characters

Every character in this play brings a unique element to the story:

  • Altagracia (Brenda Arellano): Primitivo’s sister who encourages him to chase his dreams;
  • Mr Ellis (Tom Chiola): The mysterious man carrying a satchel filled with dreams;
  • Beau (Luke Daigle): A vagabond hiding his past and face behind a ski mask;
  • Primitivo (Nicolas Gamboa): The young dreamer aiming to touch the rising sun;
  • The Gloria (Heather Townsend): A faded actress clinging to her yesteryears.

Production

  • Scenic Design: Sally Weiss;
  • Lighting Design: Diane D. Fairchild;
  • Costume Design: Erin Wuorenma;
  • Sound Design: Christopher Kriz;
  • Prop Design: Cassy Schillo;
  • Stage Manager: Meg Love; 
  • Producer: Peter Blair.

The Allegory of Icarus in Modern Times

Expanding on the myth of Icarus, this play explores the theme of dreams and aspirations. In a world fixated on perceived beauty and fame, each character represents a facet of human desires and insecurities. While delving into the symbolism of Icarus, it reflects on the very essence of humanity.

The story of Icarus has a timeless appeal because it strikes a chord with the universal human experience. It explores the struggle between aspirations and reality, dreams and their fulfillment, making it as relevant today as when the myth was first told.

Conclusion

In Edwin Sanchez’s play, Icarus, the ancient myth is retold with a modern perspective. It delves into themes of beauty, dreams, and reality, prompting contemplation of the human experience and our ongoing pursuit of the unattainable. Through intricate storytelling and compelling characters, the play evokes the essence of the Icarus myth and raises introspective questions about our current aspirations.