EIF: Penthesilea @ The Lyceum

The UK premiere of Internationaal Theater Amsterdam's post-punk take on Penthesilea is a visually and musically stunning example of gig theatre

Review by Andrea Cabrera Luna | 05 Aug 2024
  • Penthesilia

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam’s production of Heinrich von Kleist’s Penthesilea, directed by Eline Arbo in collaboration with composer Thijs van Vuure, is a spectacular reinterpretation of the classic play. It centres around the queen of the Amazons, Penthesilea, and her intense obsession with defeating Achilles, described by her as “son of the gods”.

Sometimes gig theatre can feel indulgently cringey, but this performance breaks that mould. Through extensive rehearsals, van Vuure transformed the ensemble into a credible rock band, adding a synthy post-punk sleekness to the performance. 

The tragedy unfolds with Achilles winning a battle against Penthesilea; Prothoe, her lover, convinces Achilles not to reveal his victory. When Penthesilea awakens and meets Achilles, they are fatally drawn to each other. After making love, Penthesilea promises to forgive Achilles and vows that he will not be killed, defying the traditional dictates of her tribe. When Penthesilea discovers that she never defeated Achilles, tragedy ensues. 

Instruments are flown on and off stage, a trick openly acknowledged and even joked about by Achilles. This self-awareness contributes to the show's post-punk aesthetic, the performance openly declaring its artifice. Varja Klosse’s highly sophisticated lighting design is another standout feature, offering both theatrical spectacle and a music festival thrill. Cymbals in the background of the bare stage resemble a Greek armoury, adding to the declared aesthetic. Alva Brosten’s costume design features sensual satin, fishnet bodysuits, oversized jackets and fluffy distressed jumpers. 

This visually and musically stunning production highlights the potential of well-funded arts, though it occasionally sacrifices character nuance for immersive spectacle. The beautiful songs, while emotionally powerful, sometimes felt disconnected from the story and served as shortcuts to evoke feelings that could have been more intricately developed through acting or narrative. Despite this, Penthesilea is absolutely worth seeing and experiencing. 


Penthesilea, The Lyceum, 5 Aug, 7.30pm and 6 Aug, 2.30pm, from £19, part of the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival