Seeds: The Persephone Project
at Anaheim

Reviewed on April 27, 2018

Katie Wagner
University
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

Anaheim's Production of ‘Persephone' Sows Some Modern ‘Seeds'
written by Katie Wagner, a junior at University High School

In a moment of mesmerizing tranquility, an ensemble of seven twists elegantly into the shape of a pomegranate tree. Swaying gently, this classic Greek chorus charmingly adds an unobtrusive vitality to the still backdrop of nature that surrounds them.

"Seeds: The Persephone Project" at Anaheim High School awards modern flair to a classic myth. As a teenager, Persephone is ripped away from her mother and the mortal world to wed Hades, lord of the dead. Exploring themes of teen rebellion, feminism, and struggle for identity, this intimate, world-premiere production boasts both astute actors and talented technicians.

Gabrielle Becerra is Persephone, the conflicted heroine. While confronting her neglectful father Zeus (Raymond Ordiano), Becerra's burning gaze and wide, assertive stance serve to perfectly compliment her desperate, ringing voice. With this forceful yell, she overshadows her father's feeble arguments, expertly serving to display her newfound confidence.

Noah Ramos relishes the sleazy, archetypally tortured, rascal-like character of powerful god Hades. While introducing himself to Persephone, Ramos seductively bites his lower lip. Wearing a sly grin, he uses sweeping, unhurried gestures and a confident swagger to immediately establish an aggressive, fittingly unsettling persona.

As Demeter, Cathi Andrade is endearingly protective and maternal. Upon the sudden return of her daughter from the underworld, Andrade wears a radiant, 100 watt grin and rushes to pull Persephone into a snug, warm embrace. Sweetly, Andrade creates an intensely loving, emotionally driven character.

Versatile projections, designed by Sophie Rodriguez, provide vivid backdrops upon which this poignant production unfolds. Ranging from the foreboding black cliffs and deadly, shadowy riverbanks of the underworld to a stunning, utterly alive, and vibrantly green image of a vernal forest, Rodriguez's special effects prowess stuns.

During the apprehensively-anticipated wedding of Hades and Persephone, a sinister, pipe organ rendition of Richard Wagner's classic "Here Comes the Bride" echoes ominously. Carefully selected by Xavier Rodriguez, Sophie Rodriguez, and Keylee Riveras, this music perfectly emulates the gut-wrenching suspense of a quintessential Hollywood horror flick.

Anaheim High School's production of "Seeds: The Persephone Project" is a touching, intimate tale of teen rebellion and struggle for identity. Graced with powerful performers and skilled technicians, this play reinvents classic mythology with a modern, feminist flair.

Myah Phillips
Fullerton Union
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

Feel empowered at Anaheim's "Seeds: The Persephone Project"

A modern retelling of the Greek myth depicting goddess Persephone's rise to power, Anaheim High School performance of "Seeds: The Persephone Project" defines empowerment. The story follows Persephone as she finds herself within the clutches of the underworld.

Opening with original music (composed by Sophie and Xavier Rodriguez) that, while playful at first listen, has very somber and ominous undertones, the opening scene of the show foreshadows the darkness that lurks beneath the beauty of the earth. With booming voices that speak as if in a trance, the ensemble is complimented by the score in affective, but not overpowering, ways.

Immensely emotive, Gabriela Becerra as the ethereal protagonist Persephone encapsulates the stages of Persephone's journey with every step. At first, Becerra walks on the balls of her feet, arms swinging wide, and slumps childishly against her mother's lap in order to depict Persephone's whimsical innocence and her desire for adventure.

Once she meets Hades, Becerra holds herself in a completely different way. She now clutches her arms as if holding herself together, and falls upon herself with every step. And it is not until the end of the show that the audience sees the true Persephone. Having prevailed, she radiates empowerment as she takes long, assured, strides across the stage and speaks with a controlled and resounding voice.

Noah Ramos brings to life the deceptive nature of Hades, god of the Underworld. Slinking and swaggering like the snake he is, Ramos maintains a smug smile with each manipulation of Persephone. Ramos also perpetuates Hades' creepy nature, biting his lip as he places his hands over Persephone's mouth to silence her screams. Every scene is dominated, in a good way, by Ramos' portrayal of the demon god.

Whether they be the six seeds of spring, the desperate farmers of fall, the withered trees of winter, or the demons of the underworld, the ensemble immerses the audience and breathes life, or death, into every moment. Without exception, the ensemble remains in character and are gracefully versatile during setting changes.

While there were strong connections between every character, the most notable is the one between Persephone and her mother, Demeter (played by Cathi Andrade). With rolled eyes and tight bear-hugs, the two perfectly embody a mother-daughter relationship.

"Seeds: The Persephone Project" highlights the powerful potential that lies within everyone.

Sharon Chen
Fountain Valley
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

Project declassified: Anaheim's ‘Seeds' blossoms with incomparable zest and zeal
written by Sharon Chen, a senior at Fountain Valley High School

Mortals and myths alike thrive on the insatiable sensation of transformation, by which the seams of fate fray, threading new beginnings into every split end. From the diligent efforts of Anaheim High's cast and crew sprouts "Seeds: The Persephone Project," a timeless account of growth and revelation. Bringing to the forefront the classical tale of Persephone's metamorphosis through struggle, this latest production imparts a unique spin on an ancient story, shedding light on the everlasting dilemma of love versus hate, strength through weakness, and power from defeat.

Like an innocent seedling eager to stretch into the unknown world, young Persephone (Gabriela Becerra) thirsts for freedom and adventure. Embodying teenage ambition at its finest, Becerra as Persephone moves with conviction, rolling her eyes and crossing her arms as she yearns to escape from Demeter's doting affection. Initially an image of adolescent insecurity, Becerra as Persephone gracefully shifts into a picture of independent womanhood, her upright posture and slow, sure paces evidence of wisdom gained through experience.

Likewise, Cathi Andrade shines as Demeter-- goddess of harvest, but a mother first and foremost. Wonderfully embracing the attitude of maternal concern, Andrade as Demeter wrings her hands worriedly, eyebrows knitted in desperation upon learning of Persephone's sudden disappearance into the Underworld. Exemplary in portraying protective parenthood, Andrade gradually hardens her demeanor, fuming with utmost passion after Demeter discovers Zeus's (Raymond Ordiano) betrayal in betrothing Persephone to Hades.

With evil sneer and taunting eyes intact, Noah Ramos emerges as a force of intrigue. Cunningly wicked with manipulative tendencies, Ramos as Hades strides with purpose, angling his head in careful calculation of how best to attract Persephone's attention. In a heated conversation with Demeter regarding Persephone's well-being, he subtly averts gaze, poising to announce his selfish intentions.

Projections design (Sophie Rodriguez) provides an elemental foundation from which the story builds in intensity. First setting scene under the columns of a Greek temple, Rodriguez later includes an ominously murky snapshot of the River Styx, highlighting the contrast between Persephone's pristine upbringing and her foreboding entrapment within the Underworld.

Budding with poignant performances from beginning to end, Anaheim High's "Seeds: The Persephone Project" delivers a groundbreaking perspective of individual destiny, defining it as not a mere means to an end, but a condition of growth essential to unlocking untapped potential.