Penelope

"One of the most dazzling wordsmiths of contemporary theater, and one who has a direct conduit to our wanting hearts."—Guardian

"Superbly talented."—Paul Muldoon, The Times Literary Supplement

"A writer who deserves to be better known in this country."—The New York Times

From the author of The Walworth Farce and The New Electric Ballroom—works whose joint publication was named one of the best books of 2009 by The Times Literary Supplement—comes an adaptation of Homer's Odyssey, as only Enda Walsh could do it. Due to be presented at the Galway Arts Festival by the Druid Theater Company, which launched many of Walsh's other works, Penelope focuses not on the titular character awaiting her husband Odysseus' return, but on her gaggle of suitors. The setting is the bottom of a drained swimming pool. The costuming involves Speedos. And topics of conversation include bickering over sausages for the BBQ.

Enda Walsh has been recognized by numerous awards for his plays, which include The Walworth Farce, The New Electric Ballroom, Disco Pigs, Bedbound, Small Things, Chatroom, and the award-winning screenplay for Hunger. His work has been translated into more than twenty languages.