Los Altos Youth Theatre’s “The Greek Mythology Olympiaganza” continues this weekend. The play, which opened Friday, runs through Sunday at Bus Barn Theater.
“This particular take on Greek mythology is super satirical and points out the misogyny and patriarchy of the Greek myths,” director Kristin Walter said. “It’s told like a school presentation, but in an unexpected and highly comedic way.”
Written by Don Zolidis, the one-act play follows two narrators retelling 12 classic Greek myths with a modern spin – including Pandora’s Box and “The Iliad” – each involving a different group of actors. The performers are ages 8-13.
“Our narrators push the story along, and everyone else plays at least five different parts throughout the course of the play,” said Walter, who also serves as Los Altos Stage Company’s education director. “It’s very ensemble-driven and I wanted something that would be really accessible to younger kids.”
While Walter manages the show and student-actors, executive artistic director Gary Landis designed the lighting and set, which mimics a classroom with Greek-style decor.
“The floor looks like school tiles, and all across the back we have these wonderful columns with an Athens feel,” Walter said. “There are props and costumes in full view of the audience, so kids can just pop off stage and grab a toga or a Nerf machine gun. There are also crowns, feather boas, sparkly pink wigs – there’s all kinds of stuff.”
Walter noted that the younger age range of the cast brought many new actors to LAYT.
“I love getting to know new kids and bringing them into the world of theater,” Walter said. “They’ve got a great work ethic, they’re fun, they’re fearless and they’re super willing to jump in and play, which we’re always looking for.”
Landis extended the impact of youth theater to the community as well, encouraging audiences to support the young actors.
“These are the people who go into high school and college and make art a part of their life,” Landis said. “So, it’s not only about audience entertainment; it’s also about how the community can support its local youth.”
Performances of “Olympiaganza” are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at Bus Barn, 97 Hillview Ave.
For tickets ($18-28) and more information, visit losaltosstage.org/olympiaganza.
