The Iliad or The Ghost of Achilles

Odysseus has returned home — the suitors are dead, Penelope and Telemachus restored to him, and peace should follow. Yet the war still lives inside him. As he journeys to his father’s house, Odysseus tries his old disguises, but before Laertes’ grief, every trick falters. For the first time in twenty years, he is simply a son — no hero, no king — seeking counsel and forgiveness.

But ghosts walk beside him. Achilles’ shadow looms large: the rival who chose death and glory where Odysseus chose survival. Now, facing his father, he wonders if he has truly come home. Between rage and remorse, pride and tenderness, the old warrior must ask the question no victory can answer: How does one return in mind, not just in body?

Drawing on The Odyssey, The Iliad, The Aeneid, and Jason and the Golden Fleece, this powerful retelling brings together the stories of fathers and sons, grief and legacy, and the cost of heroism. At its heart lies a single, timeless struggle — to lay down the sword and find peace after war.

A haunting, human story of homecoming and healing — Odysseus as you’ve never seen him before.

Please read this important information about events at Trebah:

• Doors will open 1 hour before the performance to allow time for you to explore the garden, have a picnic or just leisurely make your way to the amphitheatre to take your seat.

• Doors will close 15 minutes after the start time of the performance.

• This event takes place in our open-air amphitheatre and we are used to the Cornish weather! Outdoor events will only be cancelled in extreme weather conditions, so please bring a coat!

• Please allow 20 minutes before the performance starts to walk to the amphitheatre.

• With tiered seating and plenty of leg room, there’s no need to bring your own chairs (but a cushion is a good idea). Please be aware, that seating is unreserved.

• A number of cushioned seats with back supports are available at the amphitheatre on a first-come-first-served basis.

• For large parties and groups, please arrive in plenty of time if you would like seats together.

• Due to the topography of the garden there is limited access to the amphitheatre, which may not be suitable for all types of mobility vehicles. We will do everything we can to make sure you can see the show but please call us on 01326 252205 before booking to discuss.

• For accessibility/carer tickets, please call us on 01326252205.

• Our only toilets are within the Visitor Centre at the top of the garden.

• Free parking is available for all events.
• Trebah loves dogs but unfortunately they are unable to attend live performance events.
• We have a bar selling soft drinks, alcoholic drinks and snacks. You are welcome to bring your own snacks.

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Host or Publisher Trebah Garden Trust