The tale of Beowulf has been recirculated for over one thousand years, the brutal victory of man over monster resonating with people across millennia.
In FEAST., which first premiered in Iowa City at the Riverside Theatre in 2019, the story takes the spotlight away from the slaying hero, Beowulf, and focuses on the mother of the deformed monster Grendel, who until his horrifying death terrorized the town.
In this immersive and visceral theater experience, brought to downtown Los Angeles by Leonix Movement Theatre in association with Immersive Art Collective, Grendel’s mother, played by Erin Schlabach, throws a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder, only to confront her own guilt and rage.
Oscillating between witty banter and pointed exploration, this heightened high fantasy crashes into the contemporary political landscape, asking the audience to collectively contemplate climate change, income inequality, and the rising forces of authoritarianism.
Erin Schlabach stars in FEAST. – Photo Credit Ericka Kreutz Photography
Grendel’s mother has observed humanity for centuries, and through her lens, the absurdities of human behavior are illuminated. Bewildered by humanity’s choices, her perspective is both curious, comical, and unrelenting. Embodying a middle-aged woman, she champions the value of women and mothers, challenging the audience to look inward while also staying connected to the power and hope found in community.
“One of the many interesting aspects about FEAST. for me has been the exploration of how we view the idea of heroism,” says Director Laura Covelli. “The archetype of a ‘hero’ throughout history has distinguishing qualities: they are noble, courageous, selfless, and desire to help others. But this all depends on who is telling the story. Beowulf is described with these characteristics, but if we reimagine the story, as the playwright asks of us, through the lens of imperialism and the destruction of life and natural resources in the name of acquisition, the heroes and villains in this epic story shift.
While Grendel, as illuminated by his mom, is shown to be both a diplomat and a defender of nature, Beowulf and his band of merry soldiers suddenly become the true monsters we’ve inaccurately lauded throughout time.
“The play shows us why the voices of the voiceless MUST be heard; and the epic poem Beowulf, when held up as an example of every incident of imperialism throughout time, suggests there is always a side we have not been allowed to know.”
The creative team includes producers Erin Schlabach & Laura Covelli; creative consultant Meredyth Hunt; props designer Rachel Adams; lighting designer Niki Armato; and sound designer Niki Armato. The Executive Producer is Jolie Kobrinsky.
FEAST. contains overt references to sex and violence, and occasional profanity. The performance is intense, and the audience is physically close to the performer. Due to the above, FEAST. is suggested for ages 16 and older.
Performances of FEAST. take place from March 8 through April 6, 2025, on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets (general admission) are pick your price: $45, $55, or $65 and include a pre-performance ‘feast’ of charcuterie/small bites and themed drinks. The Count’s Den is located at 1039 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015.
https://www.leonixtheatre.org/
