University Players continues its 60th Anniversary season with bold storytelling from Margaret Atwood. The Penelopiad recalls the story of Odysseus, the great Greek hero, who spends 20 years fighting in the Trojan War and travelling home again. The Penelopiad looks at the story through the eyes of Penelope, Odysseus’ long-suffering wife. She spends the years awaiting his return, fending off suitors who would take his place. Upon his arrival, he kills the suitors who pursued Penelope in his absence, and her 12 maids, who he believes helped them.

UP’s production of The Penelopiad is directed by Kelli Fox in her directing debut with the University Players. Fox herself played the role of Odysseus in the Nightwood Theatre production of The Penelopiad, a performance which earned her a Toronto Theatre Critic’s Award and a Dora Mavor Moore award as a part of the ensemble. Accompanying her from that production is choreographer Monica Dottor, who returns to UP after directing Big Love in the 59thseason. Fox’s version of Penelope’s story is beautiful, ethereal and bold, underscored with original music and featuring dramatic movement and dance.

Kelli Fox says, “It's Margaret Atwood at her dry, witty best, and it takes no prisoners. And it will be a feast for the eyes. There's a lot to look at that will be constantly surprising the audience.”

All performances from Wednesday to Saturday start at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday matinee performances are at 2 p.m. On Sunday February 3rd, a “Talk Back” discussion with the actors will follow the performance. Tickets start at $8 for students, $19 for seniors and $20 for adults. Essex Hall Theatre is located on the University of Windsor campus on the corner of Wyandotte and Patricia. Visit www.universityplayers.com or call 519-253-3000 x2808.