Signature Theatre is currently presenting the D.C. premiere of the new musical Penelope through April 21 at Signature's ARK Theatre.
Inspired by The Odyssey, the musical features a book by Alex Bechtel, Grace McLean, and Eva Steinmetz and music and lyrics by Bechtel. Steinmetz also directs with music direction by Ben Moss.
The production stars Jessica Phillips (Dear Evan Hansen), who can be seen in the just-released photos below.
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
Jessica Phillips in Penelope
The solo musical centers on the Trojan War from the point of view of Penelope, wife to Odysseus. With a glass of bourbon in hand, she flips the script and steps out of her role of dutiful wife.
Watch Jessica Phillips Sing 'Drunk Iliad' From Penelope Musical
“Penelope takes a familiar story and flips it entirely on its head,” said Signature Artistic Director Matthew Gardiner in an earlier statement. “Alex Bechtel, Grace McLean, and Eva Steinmetz have crafted a witty and thoughtful new musical that examines our modern world reflected in the rocky shores of Penelope’s Ithaca. Join Penelope as she reflects on 20 long years of waiting for her wily husband to return from Troy, a glass of bourbon in one hand and a microphone in the other. I am thrilled that audiences will experience the D.C. premiere of this intelligent new musical alongside a tour-de-force performance from the sensational Jessica Phillips, a Broadway star making her Signature debut.”
Penelope played an earlier run at Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival in 2023.
The creative team also includes scenic designer Paige Hathaway, costume designer Danielle Preston, lighting designer Jesse Belsky, and sound designer Eric Norris. Becky Reed is the production stage manager. Casting is by Jorge Acevedo.
Visit SigTheatre.org.
