Adaptation of Sophocles’ Oedipus at Colonus Captures New York

The Gospel at Colonus, one of the most powerful, soul-stirring shows in theater history, made a triumphant return to New York, lighting up the Delacorte Theater from September 4 to September 9.

Set in the context of a black Pentecostal service, Gospel at Colonus is an exuberant re-telling of Sophocles’ classic Oedipus at Colonus.

The New York Times called it “An exhilarating musical celebration”.

With the ground-shaking thunder of a gospel revival meeting, this Obie-winning adaptation celebrated the 2400-year-old myth of Oedipus’ redemption with a rousing gospel and blues score.

Conceived, adapted and directed by MacArthur Genius Grant winner Lee Breuer, with music composed, arranged and directed by Academy Award nominee Bob Telson, Gospel at Colonus was a one-of-a-kind show featuring more than 40 powerhouse voices including gospel legends the Blind Boys of Alabama and the Original Soul Stirrers.

“The Gospel at Colonus is the masterpiece of the populist side of Lee’s work, a brilliant merging of Greek tragedy and biblical traditions and an astonishing meditation on death and life,” said Oskar Eustis, The Public’s artistic director.

Gospel at Colonus is made possible by JKW Foundation, the Howard Gilman Foundation, and the American Express Foundation.