Winona State University’s theater department presents Medea, a play based on ancient Greek mythology, April 3-5 on the Performing Arts Center’s Main Stage.
Originally written by the Greek playwright Euripides in 431 BCE, Medea tells a story of jealousy and revenge of a woman betrayed by her husband.
She is a princess from the “barbarian” non-Greek, land of Colchis, the daughter of King Aeetes and the granddaughter of Helios, the sun god.
Though her actions during the play, it becomes evident th that Medea is no ordinary woman by Greek standards.
“It is amazing that 2,439 years later we have newspaper clippings telling a repeat of the same situation involving jealousy over an unfaithful spouse, revenge and even murder” said Vivian Fusillo, the director of Medea.
Fusillo has been directing plays at Winona State for 40 years and teaches theater classes such as Theater Appreciation and Oral Interpretation.
When choosing which productions to produce, Fusillo tries to aim for variation.
Medea is Fusillo’s first Greek production.
“It’s a good experience,” said Fusillo.
Putting a Greek-culture production together presented challenges for both the director and crew.
“We have only have had 25 rehearsals with the whole cast there,” said Fusillo. “I have done many private scene rehearsals with parts of the crew.”
Many cast members were also involved in other productions and extracurricular activities during the rehearsal period.
The cast consists of all Winona State students.
In preparation for performances, the main cast of 11 warms up both physically and vocally for 30 minutes prior to the hour and a half production.
The character of Medea often warms up in complete isolation in order to get in the right mindset.
Knowledge of the history and story of Medea is not necessary.
“Nobody should read ahead on Medea,” said Fusillo. “I don’t want people to make up their minds about Medea before they see it. Everyone should come with an open mind and see what happens.”

Questions or comments?
Contact Jessica at
JLLarsen0487@winona.edu