The play is based on David Slavitt’s translation of Greek and Roman transformation myths, as told by Ovid. An ensemble of storytellers gather amidst a body of still water, and set it to motion to guide the audience through a myriad of Ovid’s myths. Included are familiar tales, such as King Midas and his golden touch and Orpheus and Eurydice in the Underworld, as well as many thought provoking, lesser-known myths. With nearly the entire playing space filled with water, the ensemble of performers weave their tales with imaginative imagery and flowing transitions through a variety of theatrical styles, from clever comedy to pantomime and puppetry to dance-infused movement. 

“Water becomes a central character in the piece,” says Berry. “As a visual element, it evokes thoughts of cleansing… washing away what was, to reveal something new. Each of the myths presented focuses on the over-arching theme of transition, transformation, and change. It is inevitable that we must face change in life. Each and every one of us encounters and experiences it. Metamorphoses examines the idea of these moments of human transformation and presents us with questions: Why must they happen? Are these transitions and transformations positive or negative? Can we influence their outcome or escape them? Zimmerman’s treatment of these questions is really impeccable… It makes for a truly gripping piece of theatre.”

The play stars Houston actors Travis Ammons, Erica Bundy, Melanie Burke, Katrina Ellsworth, Luke Hamilton, Megan Nix, Richard Sabatucci, Dustin A. Salinas, Whitney Zangarine and Ashlee Zoch. 

Metamorphoses runs January 16 through February 1 at Bayou City Theatrics’ downtown theatre, The Kaleidoscope, located at 705 Main Street at Capitol, Suite B. Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are available at www.BayouCityTheatrics.com as well as at the door, though BCT encourages purchasing tickets in advance to secure seating in their intimate venue. Convenient cash parking is located less than one block away at the corner of Capitol & Fannin, in the SAKS’ garage.