Rachel Lloyd20-Jul-07 - The appeal of teenagers, once you get passed the stereotyped (but sometimes justified) complaints of their parents, is their energy, enthusiasm and ability to excel if they really want to do something enough. This thought was certainly confirmed for me last night when I enjoyed a delightful evening at the Hydrama Theatre in Vlychos.

Students from the University of California portrayed extracts from Medea, Iphigenia and Bacchae with enthusiasm, a lot of talent and an amazing amount of thoughtful insight. Attendance of this four week course "Playing to the Gods" now in its eighth year, can count for 8 credits so it is taken very seriously and last night's performance was evidence of just how much had been absorbed from course directors Stathis Grapsas, Peggy Shannon, Corinna Seeds and Sara Ahmed Farouk.

Brennan VilladosBrennan Villados' performance in Bacchea was thoroughly convincing as he played his role very provocatively, with great humour and perfect timing. The masks in this extract, which the group made as part of the curriculum, were gorgeous and used to great dramatic effect.

Rachel Lloyd was tigerish in Medea and played her chilling role brilliantly.

Veronica Eddy and Katy AdamsVeronica Eddy, Katy Adams and John Saunders in Iphigenia portrayed the dynamics of their extract excellently. Their ability to maintain the emotional motivation of each of their roles throughout the scene was impressive.

Cheryl Kurata (Bacchea)Choreography is also part of the curriculum under the direction of Sara Ahmed Farouk and the classical extracts were followed by an energetic and seductive segment of Egyptian dance, which none of the participants had attempted before, combined with Jazz and hip-hop to round off the performance.

Students whether in lead roles or not, really immersed themselves in their parts and the whole production was impressively professional in every aspect.

I have a hunch that one day in the future I am going to watch a film and will be able to say "I remember when...."

Once the audience had been invited to join in with the dancing, the evening was rounded off with food and drink, courtesy of Marina (Marina's Taverna) for everyone.

Thank you Hydrama for a really great evening - Kelsey

Please visit Hydrama Gallery for all photos of the evening.