A Review: "Gilgamesh: A Musical Epic"

Columbia University School of the Arts Theatre Program recently presented “Gilgamesh: A Musical Epic” and, because my friend Matthew (who I interviewed here) was playing the lead, I decided to check it out.  First of all, it was really, really good.  Second of all, how did I not know that Columbia Stages (the producing arm of Columbia University) presents several productions a year, all of which are free to students?!  FREE!

In case you need a refresher, The Epic of Gilgamesh tells the story of Gilgamesh and his search for immortality.  In the beginning of the story, Gilgamesh is the terrible ruler of Uruk who takes advantage of his people.  Because the gods feel sorry for the subjects, they create Enkidu to challenge Gilgamesh, but the two men end up becoming good friends.  After going on several adventures together, Enkidu dies and Gilgamesh is heartbroken, and it is this heartbreak that encourages Gilgamesh to explore immortality.  Gilgamesh meets a few people on his wilderness journey who challenge him, but *spoiler alert* he ultimately arrives home to Uruk empty-handed and still a mortal.  The story concludes with Gilgamesh’s understanding that the flourishing kingdom of Uruk is not only his greatest achievement, but also the closest thing to immortality he will ever know. 

“Gilgamesh: A Musical Epic” was a thesis by Peter Petkovsek, a director from the Theatre Arts Program of the Schools of the Arts.  He gave the classic story a modern take with brightly colored costumes and sets, interpretive fighting, high energy dancing and nods to several modern eras throughout the musical.  I thought the actors balanced both the comedic and dramatic elements with care, and I look forward to watching more student work in the future.

To view the full season featuring Columbia University’s emerging directors, actors and playwrights, visit Columbia Stage’s website.