Beowulf is a name that conjures impressions of brawny strength pitted against monstrous beasts. But composer and librettist Han Lash’s Beowulf introduces us to a different sort of hero. Our Beowulf is a military doctor, who while safely at home, is still plagued by desperate decisions made on the battlefield. While he cares for his aging mother, his past seeps into his present. We quickly see that an absence of past conflict does not equal present peace.

Mirroring so many veterans who must cope with and recover from traumatic events, Beowulf shines light on the pressures placed on our modern-day heroes and reexamines what it means to have mercy.

After all, when the fight is over, our heroes still have to battle the monsters within.

Music direction is by Jason Carlson and staging direction is by Rose Freeman*. Design staff includes Samuel Stephen Lee (set), Delena Bradley (costumes), David Goodman-Edberg (lighting), Tracey Furling* (assistant director), and Shelby Krarup* (stage management). The piece will be performed with chamber orchestra conducted by Alexandra Enyart*.

The cast includes Noah Gartner*, Angela Born*, Mary Lutz Govertsen*, Rena Ahmed*, and Vince McPherson. Andrew Sprague covers the role of Beowulf.

*Indicates ensemble member

Approximate run time is 75 minutes, with no intermission.

[CONTENT WARNING: This production uses flashing lights and references themes of war trauma, medical trauma, death, dying, and mental health. Please reach out for a more detailed explanation.]

Please note - audience members are required to be masked during all performances.