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KS4 KS5

In Search of Greek Theatre: Women of Troy (2007)

Directing Drama Lighting, sound, video Performing Arts Set design
Six women stand in a dimly lit room with their arms raised to shoulder height, positioned as if ready to dance. They appear focused, each wearing semi-formal to formal attire. The background is industrial with exposed columns and pipes.

Overview

This resource for the In Search of Greek Theatre series focuses on Katie Mitchell’s production of Women of Troy.
Dr Lucy Jackson (Assistant Professor Greek Literature, Durham University) and Erin Lee (Head of Archive, National Theatre) explore how the artistic team created the world of the play and consider the role of movement and sound in the production. The production was staged in the Lyttelton Theatre in 2007 and was famous for its powerful portrayal of loss.
Taking you on a virtual visit to the National Theatre Archive, the film follows their exploration and discovery of how the work of ancient Greek dramatists can be communicated effectively through performance.

Learning outcomes

This film is designed to support students who are studying Greek drama as part of a Drama or Classics course at A Level or above, but can also offer useful insights for younger students.

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Six women stand in a dimly lit room with their arms raised to shoulder height, positioned as if ready to dance. They appear focused, each wearing semi-formal to formal attire. The background is industrial with exposed columns and pipes.
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In Search of Greek Theatre #10: Women of Troy (2007)

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Production information

Women of Troy

Lyttelton Theatre, 2007. Women of Troy by Eurpides; in a new version by Don Taylor; directed by Katie Mitchell; set design by Bunny Christie; costume design by Vicki Mortimer; lighting design by Paule Constable and Jon Clark; music by Simon Allen; movement and choreography by Struan Leslie.

Photo © Stephen Cummiskey

Suitability

Suitable for 14+/KS4+

Keywords

Greek drama, A Level Drama and Theatre, A Level Classics, Katie Mitchell, Sound

Two people sorting through material in the National Theatre Archive

Archive

Our Archive holds a treasure trove of performance material, including recordings and photographs of our productions.

Free to visit and open to everyone by appointment. School groups are welcome.

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