Pittsburgh City Paper – The ancient Greek poem Odyssey has been revisited and reimagined for about as long as books, theater, and films have existed. Now for its 30th season, Quantum Theatre presents an original, interactive spin on Homer’s mythical epic tale with OK Odysseus.
Done in participation with Citiparks, the free installation — which is available throughout the entire month of October — is described in a press release as an “interactive audio odyssey spanning two miles of trails in Schenley Park.” Much like with the titular hero and king, OK Odysseus takes guests on a journey of discovery, where instead of gods and monsters, they find pre-recorded readings of Odyssey put in a historical context by playwright Jay Ball.
Ball wrote Quantum’s contemporary Homer adaptation, An Odyssey, which was postponed due to the pandemic. It’s now set to debut at the Schenley Park Ice Rink in summer 2021.
OK Odysseus and the upcoming An Odyssey adds to Quantum’s dedication to taking experiences beyond the stage. In the past, the company has staged shows in Frick Park, the Carrie Furnaces, and the grand Trinity Cathedral, an Episcopal church located in Downtown.
After An Odyssey was put on hold, Quantum executive director Stewart Urist says Quantum decided to work with Citiparks to find a fun, safe way to reach audiences. With OK Odysseus, guests are outdoors and able to social distance as they walk through Schenley Park, beginning at Panther Hollow Lake. Along the predetermined path, they stop at five Greek columns outfitted with QR codes…
