“Medea: Re-Versed” is the creative, brilliant work of Luis Quintero, who actually wears three hats — as the playwright, chorus leader and emcee in his rap-filled version of the Greek tragedy adapted from Euripides. This play is presented by Red Bull Theater and Bedlam in co-production with Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. From the time that you are sitting in the intimate Frank Shiner Theatre at the Sheen Center located at 18 Bleecker Street, you know you’re in for a treat. The energy in the room was off the chain! Quintero was the emcee on the stage with Jacob Ming-Trent and Stephen Michael Spencer and he lets you know about the story and that this show calls for audience participation. And believe me, the audience was ready to be a part of the show!
You have never seen a Medea story like this. There is rap, singing and rhymes everywhere, along with a tremendous amount of passion, revenge, and fun. The raps that Quintero put together allow the characters involved to speak their truth in ways that makes the audience swoon with admiration and delight. Whether or not you know the story of Medea and the route she took to get revenge on King Creon and Jason, you will see it with new eyes from the depth and clarity of this meticulous script.
This play will have you gasping, laughing, cheering, and hollering. You need to see this play for so many reasons: It may give you a new perspective on the story, it will entertain you to the ultimate level, and it will set your soul on FIRE with the power of the script and the vibrant, stunning performances of this phenomenal cast. Sarin Monae West takes the character of Medea to a level that touches your soul. You feel her pain so vividly. You may actually find yourself feeling empathy. Ming-Trent is absolutely at his best as he masterfully performs the roles of Creon, Aegeus, and Messenger. I have never seen Ming-Trent not devour a role, and here he takes on three very distinct characters and brings an A-game to each. This man has an energy, a talent and a theatrical gift that is always a great pleasure to experience. Spencer captivates as Jason. His character is so wrong and strong, he is ridiculous. Spencer allows the audience to witness the audacity of his character’s arrogance, but he also plays the role with humor.
This play runs for 80 minutes without an intermission and it is intensely performed from the first word to the last. You have to make it your business to see “Medea: Re-Versed,” and you will definitely be thrilled that you did.
The production is co-conceived and directed by Nathan Winkelstein. There is a live band on stage that includes beatboxer Mark Martin (who is also the music director), guitar player Siena D’Addario, and bass player Melissa Mahoney. The production has scenic design by Emmie Finckel, costume design by Nicole Wee, lighting design by Cha See, and sound design by Matt Otto. For tickets, visit www.sheencenter.org.