Theater Students Present World Premiere of 'AJAX'

SUNY Plattsburgh’s chapter of the Alpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honors Society will mark its first production in five years with the world premiere of "Ajax."

The student production, directed by graduating senior Christian Amato, will be performed at 7:30 p.m. May 6 and 7 in the Studio Theatre, located in the Myers Fine Arts Building on the SUNY Plattsburgh campus.

The Greek tragedy, "Ajax," by Sophocles was written in the 5th century BC and chronicles the fate of the warrior of the same name. Chicago-based poet John Tipton’s recent translation enhances the script’s urgency and contemporary appeal.

"The script continues to resonate, especially now in an era where so many soldiers are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan," Amato said. “‘Ajax’ demands our attention, not only for its clear-eyed account of the bitter aftermath of victory but also its treatment of unscrupulous politics.”

Jason Amhrein, a theater student portraying the title character, said, “The material is very current. It’s an amazing role to portray due to the contemporary message at hand. That message is the impact of war, both on the battle field and when soldiers return home."

Tickets are $5 general admission, $2 SUNY Plattsburgh students and are available at the door and at the Angell College Center.