The ten-year conflict with the Greeks has finally drawn to a close and they’ve left without a trace, except for one rather large equine gift.
‘Troy Story’ is a really fun production that retells the end of the infamous Trojan war, but rather than focussing on the traditional protagonists, Achilles and Paris, the onus is put on a small contingent of the Trojan enforcements. Set in the barracks of a watch tower (complete with anti Brad Pitt propaganda) we see an insight into the lives of the “normal people”. There’s an injured soldier who is all too quick to tell us of his heroics, a scary general who thrives in times of conflict and the newbie, a fresh-faced boy who has only ever known war and is ready to do whatever it takes to help.
It’s a really fun take on a story that has been told a million times. We are so used to seeing the events of the Trojan War as monumental moments in mythological history, but you never think about the soldier on the watch tower with a crick in their back wondering if this will ever end. ‘Troy Story’ is not only funny, but it’s fascinating, seeing these people who have been so sculpted by a decade of warfare debate whether normality is even desirable anymore.
The dramatic climax comes when Priam, king and founder of Troy, needs to decide whether or not to accept the Greeks’ offering. But Priam is ailing so the decision gets thrown around by the other higherups who blatantly ignore the sound advice from the unexpected voice of reason. It’s an all too familiar picture of the corruption of leadership.
‘Troy Story’ is an amusing play that felt like it flew by. It’s silly, well-written and even quite thought-provoking. You don’t need to be an ancient historian to enjoy this show, just sit back a watch the ensuing drama of the doomed.
Troy Story
11:05 at Underbelly Cowgate (Venue 61)
August 23 – 28
