Calvin Hawkins
  • Filmmaking
  • Class of 2013
  • Wentzville, MO

Calvin Hawkins in 'Medea" cast at William Woods University

2013 Mar 5

Calvin Hawkins, a senior communications major from Wentzville, Mo., recently performed the part of Jason in "Medea" at William Woods University.

A woman scorned seeks revenge-the story of "Medea" is a classic tale with a modern twist, including Aztec themes and horror music. "Medea," written by Euripides, was performed. Feb. 28, March 1, 2 and 3 in Cutlip Auditorium of the McNutt Campus Center.

Although this story is familiar, its roots are thousands of years old.

In Greek mythology, Medea sacrificed everything for the love of Jason and a promise of marriage. She used her magic to help him obtain the Golden Fleece. She left her own family and country behind to move to Corinth with him. She bore him two sons and yet Jason abandoned her to marry the daughter of Creon, the King of Corinth.

But beware of the woman scorned, as Medea uses all her womanly charms and magic to exact the ultimate revenge upon Jason.

Joe Potter, assistant professor and artistic director of theatre, has worked at William Woods for 30 years and even helped the university produce "Medea" at the beginning of his WWU career.

But this time he brought a new spin to the story by incorporating Aztec themes, inspired by the recent apocalypse scare, and horror music, with the hope of engaging the students and giving the story a modern twist.

According to a review of the show, "The acting was phenomenal ... the set design, costume design and makeup was incredible ... and all of the actors and actresses did a spectacular job. I was truly captivated by the show."