About the project
Acts of Violence
Dramatic Reading of Thyestes, by Seneca
Translated and Directed by Bryan Doerries
Acts of Violence presents scenes from Seneca's Thyestes, a Roman tragedy that was written during the gruesome reign of Nero, as a catalyst for town hall discussions about the impact of political violence upon individuals, families, caregivers, health and human rights advocates, communities, and nations.
If nothing moves the gods,
if there is no retribution left
in this world of endless re-
taliation, then let the sun stay
away forever so the light of day
will never shine upon these crimes.
About the play
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Thyestes by Seneca
Authored in secrecy by Nero’s closest advisor, Seneca, at the height of his monstrous crimes against his family and humanity, Thyestes depicts extreme acts of political violence and vengeance during a tumultuous transfer of power, proving an ancient perspective on contemporary social issues.
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Co-presented by Theater of War Productions and Toronto International Festival of Authors.
This hybrid presentation took place in person at the Toronto Harbourfront Centre Theatre and on Zoom Webinar on September 30, 2023.
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