Originally written by Heinrich von Kleist and performed by Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, Penthesilea is a powerful, daring piece of theatre that makes bold staging choices and creates an experience that’s part rock performance and part epic Greek tragedy.

Performed in Dutch with English subtitles, the experience is slightly overwhelming. The combination of taking in the beautifully written lines from the screen, thick with classical lore, while trying not to miss any of the nuanced and frenetic acting on stage means it’s difficult to keep up. Fortunately, the cast’s raw emotion and delivery are excellently varied, helping to diminish that feeling of missing out.

The story’s framing as a rock concert is daring and subversive. Its effectiveness is varied however. The musical performances are excellent. The voices of the performers are clear, strong, and haunting, with their musical prowess on full display from the first moment when the entire cast sing in a gorgeous and eerie harmony.

Some of the rock star elements, however, are less gripping, with the entrances of Achilles and Penthesilea feeling notably underwhelming. As they strut on stage, dragging microphone stands and caressing themselves while the rest of the cast enthusiastically bop along holding instruments, it can’t help but feel forced and cringeworthy. Upon finishing the performance, this introduction seems out of place and cheesy in comparison to the rest of the slick, stylish play.

Thankfully, any brief awkwardness in tone is quickly forgotten as the play settles into the narrative, with the themes and disparate styles blending into something that is truly fascinating. The classical and the modern are combined to create a plot that is intriguing and engaging, nestled in a highly stylistic setting.

The direction and staging is daring and sometimes shocking, but always mesmerising. In one love scene, Penthesilea and Achilles lie in a large metal dish containing slime and roses which they then drape and rub over each other. The result is something grotesque yet compelling, and highly effective at putting the audience on edge.

The ending of the play is where the beauty and horror of the show peaks. Silver pots full of blood and rose petals descend from the ceiling and are used extremely effectively alongside the actors’ physical performances. It’s a climax that’s as gratifying as it is disturbing.

Penthesilea is a truly unique viewing experience. It’s a whirlwind that seamlessly takes the audience from battlefields to bedchambers to bloodbaths. Thrilling, emotional, and challenging, it’s a production that will stay with you long after you leave the theatre.