Who Knew Fragments Could Be So Beautiful?
by Robyn Lester
@robinrobynrob
This incredible solo piece is well worth your time and money.
Now, I must admit that much of the content went over my head. I’m not familiar with Sappho, or her work, and was a little lost in the subject matter. If this were any other show, it would have probably tarnished my enjoyment of the production. But with Sappho...in 9 fragments, the show could have been in a different language and I still would have enjoyed it. Yes, some background knowledge would have added to it, but it didn’t change the fact that this performance was absolutely awe-inspiring.
Sappho's love affairs on Twitter
by Jessica Ruano
Jessica Ruano was ubiquitous in Ottawa, Canada as promoter and reviewer for the local arts community. Having recently moved to London, United Kingdom, she is pursuing a career in theatre as a director, producer, and freelance writer.
From a busy café in London, England, I’m flirting with Sappho’s followers on Twitter.
“I wanted to tell you everything, but I couldn't give away too much. There were others watching. I knew you would be the one...” I say with characteristic static certainty, in 140 characters or fewer.
The recipient of my message replies: “Freedom is now yours, fear not the stares of those we fought. Take to that stage, woman of the Greek night, and tell all.”
For social media purposes, I embody the role of Sappho with gusto – and I’m not even playing her onstage.
In fact, I’m the director and producer of ‘Sappho …in 9 fragments’, a remarkable play by Jane Montgomery Griffiths about 600 BC’s Lesbian poet. In this London production that tours Canada this summer, actor Victoria Grove plays the roles of both Sappho and her modern-day lover Atthis.
