Invitation Only
Theater of War: Ajax United States Naval Academy
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Fri, Oct 13.2023
Theater of War Productions presents community-specific, theater-based projects that address pressing health and social issues. The company works with leading film, theater, and television actors to deliver dramatic readings of seminal plays, followed by town hall-style discussions designed to confront social issues by drawing out raw and personal reactions to themes highlighted in the performances. The guided discussions will underscore how the plays resonate with the Midshipmen, Faculty, and Staff and invite audience members to share their perspectives and experiences. The goal of these events is to break down stigmas, foster empathy and awareness, enhance compassion, promote engaged leadership and a deeper understanding of complex issues that will serve the MIDN well as they develop and grow as future naval officers.
Featuring performances by Chad Coleman (The Wire, The Walking Dead), Taylor Schilling (Orange is the New Black, Dear Edward), and Bryce Pinkham (Mercy Street, The Blacklist). Directed and facilitated by Bryan Doerries.
All three events will take place in Alumni Hall.
About the play
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Ajax by Sophocles
Sophocles’ Ajax tells the story of a fierce warrior who is passed over for recognition by his command after losing his cousin Achilles in battle during the Trojan War. Feeling betrayed, Ajax attempts to murder his superior officers, fails, and—ultimately—takes his own life. The play tells the story of the events leading up to Ajax’ suicide, as well as the story of his wife and troops’ attempt to intervene before it's too late. The play also depicts the devastating impact of Ajax’ suicide upon his wife, son, brother, troops, and chain of command.
Cast Members
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Chad Coleman
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Taylor Schilling
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Alex Morf
Explore Projects
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War & Mental HealthThe Tecmessa ProjectThe Tecmessa Project presents readings of Sophocles’s Ajax, an ancient play about the visible and invisible wounds of war, as the catalyst for discussions focusing on the unique challenges faced by military family members, including couples, children, caregivers, and communities. This project is designed to promote understanding, compassion, and positive action.
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HomelessnessThe Oedipus at Colonus ProjectThe Oedipus at Colonus Project presents readings of scenes from Sophocles’ final play, Oedipus at Colonus, as catalyst for powerful, community-driven conversations about homelessness, the immigration and refugee crisis, and the challenges of eldercare during and after the pandemic.
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Domestic ViolenceMedeaMedea timelessly depicts how scorned passion can lead to revenge and, sometimes, unthinkable violence. This project, which premiered at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in June 2016, delves into under-discussed mental health issues that affect women and their families.