Theseus and the Monster in the Maze is a musical “about defending democracy,” said writer, composer and director Chris Cherry, told through the vehicle of a play within a play. Combining the Greek myth of Theseus and a grim not-too-distant future, Cherry and his company presented a spirited performance of epic adventure and song on March 7, commemorating the 20th anniversary production of the Greenbelt Youth Musical. Two additional performances will be offered on Saturday, March 14 at 2 and 7 p.m.
The 34 teen actors played roles initially created in a previous musical by Cherry called “The School for Superheroes Presents Orlando Furioso.” They reprise superhero characters with unlikely abilities like Captain Dance, Classics Kid and Copy Cat, who belong to a School for Superheroes that has been closed by the oppressive Regime.
As the play opens, Cherry said, the characters exist in a state where “an authoritarian ruler has taken power and required all citizens to follow him on social media.” Meeting in the boarded-up remains of their school, they discover and stage a play about Theseus which they hope will “reopen the realm of storytime, rescue their missing comrades and galvanize support for democracy,” said Cherry.
The Theseus play sets the grand myth alongside modern comedic touches. Theseus, who was credited with being the founder of democracy and is its symbolic protector, said Cherry, discovers his divine parentage from the god Poseidon and uses that strength to survive the dreaded minotaur and his deadly maze, political intrigue and a trip to the Underworld, and to rise to become an instrument of freedom and inclusion.
Senior Sean Brittan-Powell, from DeMatha Catholic High School, who plays Theseus/ Nice Guy, has participated in the Greenbelt youth musicals for five years, saying that he “loves the community it creates.” As Theseus, he dove into this compassionate and romantic role where he is required to play the warrior, dedicated friend and eventual leader. He said that this “has been my favorite play that I’ve done.”
Senior Danny Zolt, from Wye River Upper School, cast as Fashion Lad/Hexistratus, has done so many musicals that it is a blur. He said this musical is “extraordinary” with amazing songs and lots of intrigue and cool moments. His roles embodied both dramatic aplomb and conniving sneakiness.
Eleanor Roosevelt High School senior Ezra Pitts said that the cast experience is “like a family.” He plays Party Boy/ Pirithous, both roles delivered with robust, energetic comedy. His part was often at the center of the play’s humorous moments. There were several funny scenes where he spars with the didactic and exasperating Literature Lass, played by Madeline Hille, who is his complete opposite.
Some of the comedic high points of the show were a song by Zolt, as Fashion Boy, where he espouses his relish for Lycra, the go-to costume of superheroes, and a raucous, apolitical party, done to foil some Regime agents, which pokes fun at current political partisanship.
The songs were a mixture of touching ballads and rollicking fun, performed confidently by the cast and backed solidly by pianist and musical director Stefan Brodd, who collaborated with Cherry. They were joined often with graceful and jazzy choreography by Elta Goldstein.
Nicole DeWald was the production designer. The appealing sets and props, while minimal, were used in an effective and creative manner. The costuming was colorful and apropos to the characters.
Robin Pitts, mother of cast members Ezra and Viola, said that Cherry’s productions are “a well-oiled machine.” She said that “parents in Greenbelt love Chris Cherry,” for the experience he offers every year. Through it, participants learn to be professional and have respect for the project and each other. She remarked on the many alumni performers who return to help each year.
Regarding the opening night performance, Cherry said that “the weeks of dedicated work of cast members and stagecraft artisans flowered in a beautiful performance. I’m proud of every member of the cast and crew, and I’m grateful for the tremendous support from the Greenbelt community.”