Lysistrata is a classical masterpiece bursting with sexual high jinks and slapstick comedy that packs a punch with political and social satire. While it is a significant piece of feminist anti-war drama, it also possesses a well- deserved reputation of being bawdy, off-color and very funny. CSC Artistic Director and Lysistrata director Ian Gallanar has written an original, contemporary adaptation based on two of Aristophanes’ comedies: The Assemblywomen and Lysistrata.

Lysistrata, a frustrated housewife, tries to change the balance of power in ancient Athens by first taking over the government and, when that strategy fails, by convincing the women of Greece to withhold sexual privileges from their husbands until the desperate men agree to negotiate a peace against the latest in a series of wars.

In this boisterous, colorful and sensual production, Lysistrata will mix original music, dance, clowning, giant puppets and contemporary dialogue into a hysterical comedy about who really “carries the big stick.”

Greek plays were often written for and performed as part of religious festivals. In true Greek fashion, CSC will present Lysistrata at Oliver’s Carriage House, home of the Kittamaqundi Community Church, 5410 Leaf Treader Way, Columbia, Maryland 21044.

by Aristophenes
adapted and directed by Ian Gallanar