Penelope Review: Grace McLean Delivers a Riveting One-Woman Odyssey 2026

The Penelope review of Alex Bechtel's seductive song cycle reveals a riveting one-woman show starring Broadway actor Grace McLean. This theatrical piece reimagines Homer's epic from the perspective of Odysseus's wife, offering a drily witty, defiant, and elegant portrayal that captivates audiences for its entire hour-long production.

A Fresh Take on a Classic Myth

Penelope has been portrayed by Anne Hathaway in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film, featured in Margaret Atwood's The Penelopiad, and inspired a 2010 play by Enda Walsh. Now, Bechtel's song cycle gives her a voice that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The production, credited to Bechtel, McLean, and director Eva Steinmetz for Rigor + Ruckus, transforms the challenge of a character whose principal function is waiting into a dynamic theatrical experience.

Grace McLean's Compelling Performance

McLean brings both vocal and emotional range to the role, embodying Penelope's frustration and occasional temptation as suitors camp out in her home, ready to take Odysseus's place. Her performance balances dry humor with moments of genuine vulnerability, creating a character who is both relatable and mythic. The songs, which nod to soul, blues, and show tunes, are anchored by Bechtel's piano arrangements that range from strident to tender.

Key Moments and Musical Highlights

The production cleverly includes Penelope's famous scheme to string along the suitors by unstitching her knitting every night, though it skips the archery contest from Homer's tale. While most of the show maintains a lively pace, one reflective song near the end, where Penelope looks back to her early romance with Odysseus, seems to tread water. However, this minor lull does little to diminish the overall impact.

Why This Penelope Review Matters

This production stands out in the crowded field of myth retellings by giving voice to a character often relegated to the sidelines. It challenges audiences to reconsider the nature of heroism and patience, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts and fans of classical literature alike.

• Grace McLean delivers a career-defining performance
• Alex Bechtel's music blends genres seamlessly
• A fresh, feminist perspective on Homer's epic
• Intimate staging perfect for the hour-long format
• A must-see for fans of innovative musical theater

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