Blending Greek mythology with modern themes, and even incorporating water on stage, Metamorphoses offers audiences a unique and immersive experience.
Director Joshua Rubin first discovered Metamorphoses when he saw its original Broadway production in 2002. “It was one of those plays that made an immediate impact,” he said. “I always thought that someday I’d love to do this play.” Now, that vision has come to life at Glenbard East.
The play explores themes such as love, greed, transformation, and patience, ideas that Rubin says remain relevant today. “It’s kind of a beautiful play,” he said. “We often think about what types of theatre we are exposing audiences to, and this one introduces something different, what people might call magical realism.”
One of the most prominent features of this production is its use of water on stage, an element rarely seen in high school theatre. “Water in a theatre is a big ask,” Rubin said. “But I wanted audiences to see how it interacts with light and movement.” To ensure safety while keeping the effect, all front row seats will serve as a dedicated “splash zone.”
Students involved in the production say the show stands out for both its creativity and its physical demands. Junior Gianna Mitchell shared that one of her favorite aspects is “definitely the water,” stating that it adds a new layer to the production. She also described the show as “full circle,” with a structure that begins and ends in a similar place.
For many cast and crew members, the sense of community has been just as impactful as the performance itself. “There are so many great people in theatre,” said Sophomore Sam Apolinar. “If you ask for help, there are always people ready to jump in. It’s just a great vibe.” He added that audiences may be surprised by the scale of the production, especially with the inclusion of pools on stage.
Junior Leo Luchtman highlighted the creative liberty students have been given throughout the process. “We’ve been able to make our own decisions and bring our ideas to life,” he said. “It helps us think more creatively and collaborate better.” He also stated that the show’s Greek mythology influences its staging, including the platforms and column inspired designs.
Unlike more traditional productions with a clear, linear storyline, Metamorphoses relies on its movement, music, and imagination to guide the audience along. “It’s less about realism and more about storytelling,” Rubin said. “We want audiences to feel like they’ve experienced a piece of art.”
With its creative staging, meaningful themes, and dedicated cast and crew, Metamorphoses promises to be a memorable addition to Glenbard East’s theatre season. As Luchtman put it, “Just know how hard everyone worked, and beware of the splash zone.”
