Phaedra, this suspense-filled tragedy, was written in France's Golden Age based on ancient Greek mythology. Jean Racine's original 5-act French version of Phedre was first performed in Paris on June 1, 1677.

Phaedra is the young, lonely wife of Theseus, the legendary king of Athens. And she is secretly in love with Hippolytus, the king's son by a former marriage. Keeping the secret tightly locked in her breast has impaired Phaedra's health—but now, suddenly, the accidental death of Theseus is reported. Phaedra dares at last to reveal her secret love. And then Theseus appears—very alive and full of vengeance.

The 1-act ancient Greek tragedy offers an exciting experience for cast and audience, and a rare acting opportunity for your best actress. Sarah Bernhardt and Merlina Mercouri are among the famous actresses playing this role. Set and costumes may be simple or elaborate.

A student newspaper in Minneapolis quoted the director's explanation of how he chose Phaedra as a contest entry: "I read possibly three dozen one-acts last summer to find something that hadn't been done, was good literature, a challenge, and would be recognized by critics, coaches and student participants as a good piece of theatre."

There is no universal agreement on the pronunciation of some of the names in this play. Phaedra has been called FED-ra, FAY-dra, and FEE-dra. The dictionaries say FEE-dra, but most theatre people seem to say FED-ra. A Director's Script (prompt book) gives many such helps. It contains drawings of costumes and sets, details on all technical aspects of staging, discussion of characterization and plot and theme; and it suggests the complete blocking and full stage directions for all movement and business.

Set, sparsely furnished Greek portico; Time and Place, ancient Greece. (Set and costumes may be simple or elaborate.)

See also: Adaptations of Ancient Scripts