Did you ever wonder what happens to the Olympian gods when they get old and decide to change places with some mortal comedians for a year??? Would you like to hear famous authors talk about how myths and classical works have had an impact on their work?

Here is your opportunity . . . because the classicists are in town!

Please come to the Palais des Congrès and the Hyatt Hotel on January 6 for two free events sponsored by the American Philological Association*!

When: Friday, January 6

 

What: “Classics and Contemporary Fiction.” Famous authors Margaret Drabble, Anne Carson, Michael Dirda, and Carol Goodman discuss classical antiquity and contemporary fiction. How does the classical world find new life in the characters, themes and narratives of contemporary fiction? (1:30 – 4:00 p.m., 513c Palais des Congrès)

 

What: Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta Thespis, or The Gods Grown Old. A showcase of musical talent in a staged reading and singing of Gilbert and Sullivan’s first collaboration (1871). The story of the aged Olympians’ desire to examine their status among mortals and their decision to trade places for a year with Thespis’ company of comedians. (8:00-10:00 p.m: Grand Salon B, Hyatt Level 4)

 

*The American Philological Association (APA) is the principal learned society in North America for the study of ancient Greek and Roman languages, literatures, and civilizations. The APA is pleased to be holding its 137th Annual Meeting in Montréal from January 5-8, 2006. Further information about the APA is available at its web site: www.apaclassics.org.