Greeking Out review | Melbourne Fringe | Spielhaus

In Greeking Out, Rebecca Perich steps into the role of Professor Ari, guiding the audience through an energetic and playful lesson in Greek Mythology 101. The show revisits classic tales such as the Minotaur, Theseus, and Ariadne, blending storytelling, audience participation, and visual elements to bring these myths to life. With moments that invite us to interact and engage, the performance balances humour and a curiosity-driven unpacking of stories that have captivated people for centuries.
 
From the outset, it’s unclear what role the audience is meant to have. Are we children in a classroom or adults attending a lecture? We’re instructed to keep our phones off, yet also asked to make pantomime-like call-and-response sound effects as Professor Ari recounts the story of the Minotaur, creating a slightly confusing dynamic.
 
Perich has a lot she wants to explore here, and she covers it all, but it results in too many ideas being left underdeveloped, which undermines the potential depth of the performance. This is most evident when introducing the “layered trifle” method. This alone could have been a robust foundation for a more substantial examination of Greek mythology, instead of a simple rehash of the Minotaur, Theseus, and Ariadne - a familiar narrative even to those with only rudimentary awareness of the myths. A deeper, original angle would have strengthened the show significantly.

A plot twist near the end is a welcome surprise, but it too feels like it could sustain an entire 60 minutes on its own, particularly if the myths were reframed through a feminist perspective. This has the potential to provoke richer discussion and offer fresh insight, but it leaves you wanting a clearer sense of purpose. Why does this story matter today, and what does the tension between accuracy and interpretation reveal about its relevance?
 
There’s no denying Perich’s rich knowledge of these myths, and her enthusiasm and willingness to look beyond the same interpretations are clear. However, Greeking Out would benefit from a more focused, cohesive approach. Choosing a single lens or thematic thread and shaping it fully would make the show stronger and more rewarding.

Greeking Out was performed at Spielhaus between 6 - 12 October as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Image Credit: Callan Trewenack