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Open-air Oedipus Inaugurates London Amphitheatre

The Scoop - a new amphitheatre space created alongside the new Norman Foster-designed, riverside headquarters of the Greater London Assembly (pictured) - is inaugurated tonight (10 July 2003) with a free open-air production of Sophocles' classic Greek tragedy Oedipus, which continues until 3 August 2003.

Oedipus is a young king whose city is riddled with famine and pestilence. He vows to unmask the source of this plague. Sophocles' classic is given a contemporary setting with City Hall itself playing a pivotal role as a centre of power in the production.

Stephen Beckett, who assumes the title role, is best known for playing Dr Matt Ramsden in TV soap Coronation Street. Director Phil Wilmott - whose other recent Steam Industry productions include of Around the World in 80 Days at BAC, Henry VII and The Resistible Rise of Arturo Uri at the Bridewell and Measure for Measure Malaya at Riverside Studios - also performs, taking the part of Creon.

Other cast members include Katerina Jugati as Jocasta, Patricia Villa as Tiresias, Simon Wright, Robert Donald and Claire Francis, supported by an eight-strong chorus. Oedipus is translated by E F Watling. The production is designed by Alex Marker, with lighting by Hansjorg Schmidt.

- by Hannah Kennedy

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