Classics scholars plan epic event

Sunday 26 March 2006

Classical scholars at the University of St Andrews will stage an epic 12-hour performance of the ancient work of Homer for charity next month.

Over 100 staff and students will take to the streets of St Andrews as characters of the Iliad and the Odyssey for one day only on 29 April 2006. From ancient monsters, Gods and Goddesses to Helen of Troy and Achilles, the streets of St Andrews will come to life through the re-telling of the ancient tales. ‘Homerathon’ will run a non-stop stage production of abridged versions of the Greek tragedies, homing in on two sections; the Fall of Troy and Odysseus’ journey home.

Battle will commence in and around the town’s All Saint’s Church with the first play being kicked off at 10am while fellow fundraisers will take to the streets in costume to raise further funds. Entry to the performances will be free of charge with fundraising being done through collections and prize draws on the day.

The event is organised by the University’s School of Classics in association with the Classics Society, Theatre Odyssey and the Scottish Hellenic Society. Its aim is to support health and education in developing countries and specifically to raise funds for Africa Educational Trust and AVERT (An international AIDS charity).

Staff and students will be involved in all aspects of the event, from costume and prop- making to stage direction, and are currently seeking support through sponsorship or donation. Organisers are particularly keen to secure a ‘Trojan horse’, famously used by the Greeks to gain entry into the walls of Troy, as a centre-piece for their dramatic event.

Organising committee member Lucy Jones said, “This is going to be a really fun event. We have modified versions of the Iliad and the Odyssey so it will be suitable for children. We will also be reciting some parts in Ancient Greek to keep adults and scholars entertained. We’ll be going for 12 hours but people should feel free to pop in and out. The most important thing is that we raise money for these great causes and, hopefully, provide plenty of entertainment in the meantime.”

Homerathon 2006 will run at the All Saints Church, St Andrews, from 10am to 10pm on Saturday 29 April 2006. Anyone wishing to contribute to the event should contact Rebecca Sweetman at the School of Classics, University of St Andrews or by emailing rs43@st- andrews.ac.uk

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media – www.beattiegroup.com On behalf of the University of St Andrews Contact Gayle Cook, Press Officer on 01334 467227 / 462529, mobile 07900 050 103, or email gec3@st- andrews.ac.uk Ref: Epic event 270306.doc View the latest University press releases at http://www.st- andrews.ac.uk

 


Category Fundraising

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