'Feast.' Unique Solo Play Offering a Contemporary Vivid Reimagining of the Epic Poem Beowulf

Leonix Movement Theatre in association with Immersive Art Collective present the West Coast premiere of FEAST. a vivid reimagining of the epic poem Beowulf as a cautionary tale. True to the ancient myth Grendel a monstrous creature described as ‘mankind’s enemy’ is killed by Beowulf but it is here that FEAST. diverges. In this immersive and visceral theatre experience Grendel’s mother throws a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder only to confront her own guilt and rage. Oscillating between witty banter and pointed exploration this heightened high fantasy crashes into the contemporary political landscape asking the audience to collectively contemplate climate change income inequality and the rising forces of authoritarianism. FEAST. will have its West Coast premiere for a five-week run March 8 through April 6 at The Count’s Den in downtown Los Angeles.

Experience this provocative one-woman live theatrical event during an actual ‘feast’ with charcuterie/small bites and themed drinks. The FEAST.’s host is the sea-hag mother of Grendel an ancient magickal creature thirsting for revenge played by Erin Schlabach. Grendel’s mother has observed humanity for centuries and through her lens the absurdities of human behavior are illuminated. Bewildered by humanity’s choices her perspective is both curious comical and unrelenting. Embodying a middle-aged woman she champions the value of women and mothers challenging the audience to look inward while also staying connected to the power and hope found in community.

The tale of Beowulf has been recirculated for over one thousand years; the brutal victory of man over monster resonating with people across millennia. This solo play was written (and originally performed) by playwright and comedian Megan Gogerty. Gogerty shifts the perspective of the story in FEAST. which first premiered in Iowa City at the Riverside Theatre in 2019 taking the spotlight away from the slaying hero giving it to the mother of the slain instead.

Performances of FEAST. take place from March 8 through April 6 2025 on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets (general admission) are pick your price: $45 $55 or $65 and includes a pre-performance ‘feast’ of charcuterie/small bites and themed drinks (there will be options for dietary restrictions). The selected ticket price will not affect the experience. If you can afford to pay more for your ticket please do as you will be supporting the artists and staff who make risky relevant and unique theatre productions possible. Ultimately programming should be accessible and Leonix Movement Theatre encourages guests to select the price point that best fits their budgets. The Count’s Den is located at 1039 S. Olive Street Los Angeles CA 90015.

FEAST. contains overt references to sex and violence and occasional profanity. The performance is intense and the audience is physically close to the performer. Due to the above FEAST. is suggested for ages 16 and older. Advance reservations are requested as tickets may not be available at the door.

Host or Publisher Susan Gordon