Lysistrata: Matthew Chenevert Text vs Production

Text vs production analysis : Lysistrata

I picked the scene where Cinesias is seduced by Myrrhine.

This is VERY much the way I pictured interaction between the two characters. The producer was true to the text with all the vital parts of the scene. Pan’s Cave, making Cinesias comfortable, Cushions and pillows, a blanket, the perfume (both of them).

The most important parts of the text also did justice to the written Greek comedy. Mainly Cinesias’ words that provided humor, and more importantly, pivotal points. I found it funny when he sent the boy home (he was obviously bait). While Myrrhine was seducing Cinesias she asked him if he would be true to his word and work towards a treaty. At first he says he is not deceiving her “No, by my life, I’m not”. Then later he says “I’ll think about it”. That’s when she gets some backbone and runs off. Very true to the actually play text and the most important part of the scene.


I did picture an actual bench as opposed to the lawn chair thing they used on stage. Also, I don’t know if the Clepsydra is the same thing as a fountain but that is another minor improvising that was made.


The scene was more bare that in my mind’s eye. I actually had it pictured more in the light (like day time or dusk) and with some activity in the back ground. Like city activity. It seemed that it was more of an impromptu meeting than a full on encounter. That made it easy for her to make her exit.

Much more fun to watch this one that to try and read the the captions then watch the characters actually act. I didn’t get a good feel for that one (but the music was a nice addition).