Hellas Review – The Greco-Persian War in a Gripping Five Hours

When playwright Christopher William Johnson decided to tackle a Greek epic, the result was a sweeping tale of the birth of western civilization and democracy – barely containable in five to six hours. Given the enormous amount of content involved in the tale, the story is split into two parts which may be viewed in one sitting on weekends and in two parts on alternating Fridays. Not only does HELLAS weave together historical and compelling narratives of individual and collective struggle, but it also illustrates the strength and the fragility of democracy, a concept which fluctuates in sync with human nature. But HELLAS also offers a rare opportunity for theater-goers: the marathon story is presented in the manner of the ancients – including the use of masks, dance and stage combat, and the use of verse and rhythm which is inescapably Greek. If you want to experience a play about the conflict between the Greeks and the Persians as if it were contemporary theater – albeit in the early fifth-century B.C. – then HELLAS will definitely meet your expectations. In 2025, the School of Night proudly presents the world premiere of HELLAS at the Broadwater Mainstage in Hollywood.

Keegan Gray Hughes, Sebastian Sage, and Rich Dally III – Photo by Jessica Sherman

The time is the early fifth century B.C., and the places move among Athens, Sparta, and Persia. The cast of 23 includes the kings, generals, and movers and shakers of the period, as well as lots of combatants and even the Athenian playwright Aeschylus (Mathias Blake). There are several standouts in the ensemble actors, including Themitokles (Colin A. Borden), an Athenian whose clever manipulations suggest an apolitical and pragmatic individual more interested in saving his own hide than Fighting for “the right.” Another standout is Xsyarsa (Scott Bartling), King of the Persians and son of Darius (Thomas Bigley). The Spartans, of course, must be defined by King Leonidas (Daniel Adomian), a noble warrior whose only failing may be his capacity to trust others. Now and then, a few very assertive and frequently bloodthirsty females also surface, including the Persian Atossa (Dawn Alden) and the Spartan Gorgo (Sara Gorsky).

Daniel Adomian, Sara Gorsky, Sebastian Sage, Rich Dally III, and Anand Mahalingham – Photo by Jessica Sherman

Unflinchingly helmed by author Johnson, HELLAS manages to keep the audience’s attention despite the uncustomary length of the play. Happily, every hour there is an intermission to keep attention alive and focused. The cast does an excellent job of emoting in the “Greek manner,” even with masks sometimes covering their entire faces. There are also any number of exciting battles coordinated by Jen Albert, fight choreographer, as well as some dances designed by Esther Mira, dance choreographer. Cat Morrison’s costumes help delineate the three groups in the style of the day. And let’s not forget drummer Chloe Madriaga, who sets the pace and tone of the story with her rattles, clicks, and beats.

Ruju Dani, Angelika Giatras, Dawn Alden, and Scott Bartling – Photo by Jessica Sherman

HELLAS is probably more of an “event” than a simple play. As such, it is an experience which should not be missed – especially by those fascinated by history and Greek theater. The tale is rampant with issues of vendetta, revenge, sea and land battles, oaths and betrayals, family trauma and struggles, friendship, loyalty, love, and sacrifice. In addition, there are subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) suggestions throughout the play that the conflicts and politics of the fifth century B.C. may continue – for good or evil – to the present day.

HELLAS cast – Photo by Jessica Sherman

HELLAS runs through May 11, 2025, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Friday (Part I) 4/18 and 5/2; Part II runs on 4/25 and 5/9; at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays (Part I and Part II). The Broadwater Mainstage is located at 1076 Lillian Way, Los Angeles, CA 90038. Tickets are $25 to $30 (students, $5 discount; group discounts available). For information and reservations, go online.