15 Heroines

Inspired by Ovid, and written by 15 different playwrights, 15 Heroines is a clever and beautifully written play. The playwrights were given free rein, producing a mixture of texts: some that are true to Ovid's original style and language, and others more contemporary. The first production was an online performance, so there is much scope for exploration, especially if exam boards continue with the idea of socially distanced theatre for some time.

The 15 monologues are divided into three sections – The War, The Desert and The Labyrinth. The War tells the untold stories of the women in the Trojan War. I loved the monologue ‘Red Wine to Paris’ – the poetic nature of the text with twists of strong language and modern references made the monologue feel true to the original writing but so relevant to a contemporary audience. Clever references to a contemporary audience are made throughout, such as Laodamia's costume being a ‘Greek-style flowing dress’ which ‘could also pass for a more modern beach kaftan-style dress’. Charlotte Jones’ monologue is much more naturalistic than Lettie Precious’ – an attention-grabbing contrast.

This format continues throughout the play, with The Desert telling stories about women going their own way. April De Angelis’ poetic writing coupled with references to Keto diets, Pedigree Chum and Loose Woman create a comic effect, alongside a sobering truth of paedophilia. I can imagine A Level students revelling in this monologue.

The final section is The Labyrinth, which tells the stories of women who had encounters with Jason and Theseus. I have always been a huge fan of Bryony Lavery's writing, and she does not disappoint with Ariadne's monologue. This monologue contrasts beautifully with Natalie Haynes monologue for Hysipyle, which is written as a letter to Jason and is pure speech.

It is the contrasting nature of the playwrights’ approaches that makes this truly inspirational collection of monologues so captivating.