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As locally the winds of autumn begin to swirl, the mythical voyage of Jason and his crew, the Argonauts, in their search for the golden fleece, gets a fresh creative wind in its sails via Penn State Centre Stage.
PSCS seems to delight in setting larger-than-life tales in University Park's intimate Pavilion Theatre.
In this version by Mary Zimmerman, while the humans here wrestle with greed, loyalty, love, bravery, honor and adventure, the gods who oversee them debate the proper means and standards for keeping them alive and on task.
Under the direction of Steve Snyder, this production has a lot going for it. Despite a couple of moments of uneven energy, the overall thread progresses steadily via committed players and solid supporting elements.
As soon as Jason (Brandon Gregory) is dispatched by King Pelias (Zudhi Boueri) to seek the fleece, a serious plotline has formed and shards of humor have been strewn about.
Gregory is as purposeful and honorable as Boueri is quirky and funny.
As this telling melds both ancient and modern details, the scenic design innovates simple yet marvelous set elements by Abigaile Wiker, including larger-than-life masks, mythical beasts operated adroitly by two players and a stout ship's mast. Trap doors allow men and beasts to emerge from or descend into the underworld. Costumes by Austin M. Rausch use simple and sometimes outlandish details to identify characters and, as in the case of the king's beard, add a touch of humor.
When, after overcoming many obstacles -- including clashing rocks and a dragon that never sleeps -- Jason has the fleece, he also falls for and brings back the princess Medea (played with earnestness by Sadie Spivey). Does it all end well, and will their love last?
Johnique Mitchell and Jordan Cooper are watchful and caring as the gods Athena and Hera. Zack Wold is witty as the overly dramatic Hercules.
The sound design by Curtis Craig creates epic, somber and dramatic soundscapes.
Fight scenes by Erik Raymond Johnson hold a classic feel and choreography by Elisha Clark Halpin gives the cast a deft movement sequence in an early scene.
There is some very strong language, if only in a few spots.
If you go
What: "Argonautika"
When: Through Nov. 3
Where: Pavilion Theatre, State College
Tickets: $20 evenings; $18.50 matinees. 800-ARTS-TIX or 814-863-0255