Stephen Rea heads a stellar cast in new Shepard play

A Particle of Dread (Oedipus Variations) is Shepard’s take on the story of Oedipus, the mythical king whose tragic tale was first dramatised by Sophocles two thousand years ago. This Ancient Greek classic is re-imagined as a modern thriller set in the desert of the American West. Stephen Rea and Brid Brennan lead a cast of seven Irish actors under the direction of Nancy Meckler, with live music performed by acclaimed cellist Neil Martin.

In a career spanning nearly fifty years, Sam Shepard has gained the critical regard and iconic status enjoyed by only a rare few in American theatre. He has been based in Londonderry throughout rehearsals for A Particle of Dread (Oedipus Variations), working closely with Field Day to create a challenging and memorable theatrical event for the 2013 City of Culture programme.

Commenting on the play, Shepard said: “I think Sophocles must have had an intention. I don’t think he was writing just for the heck of it. I think he knew very well what we all know yet pretend not to. I think he knew we each have a destiny and a fate. That they work side by side, whether we see it or not. That this destiny is somehow written; forecast, like the weather.”

A Particle of Dread (Oedipus Variations) runs at The Playhouse until Saturday, December 7. The production has been made possible thanks to the support of the Culture Company, the British Council and the Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure.

Tickets are on sale now via The Playhouse website www.derryplayhouse.co.uk or by calling box office on 028 7126 8027.