Each semester Vanguard Theatre entertains us with a performance that is nothing short of phenomenal, and this year is no exception. The choice for this semester’s production is Lysistrata, the classic Greek comedy filled with heroism and charm. Lysistrata was the third and final work of the ancient playwright Aristophanes who sets the stage in Sparta during the Peloponnesian War.

The protagonist, Lysistrata is regarded as a heroine in many respects. She is exhausted by the war between her people and the Greeks and after much evaluation takes matters into her own hands. Lysistrata manages to hold an assembly for the women of Sparta and surrounding areas where she convinces them to swear to an oath that they will withhold sexual favors from their husbands until both sides have agreed to sign a peace treaty.

Characters include the Chorus of Old Men and the Chorus of Old Women, who add a comedic element to the plot as well as protect the Akropolis. Kleonike, Lysistrata’s neighbor, embraces her femininity and supports her bold idea. Myrrhine also is a character who uses her feminine strength to her husband Kinesias’s disadvantage. She tricks him into thinking that she will have sex with him then a moment before, rejects him. He is the first to be affected by the sex strike. Then, there is the Commissioner of Public Safety who is in command of the laws and regulations yet is so overwhelmed by the women and their spirit that he dresses as a woman himself. The protagonist is supported by many women during her quest for peace between two countries she believes have too much common heritage to engage in war. Lysistrata faces struggle, but her feminine drive to persevere is stronger.

The production cast, led by director Ken Zimmerman, may be larger than previous semesters, perhaps even consisting of 25-30 members. With production dates scheduled for November, it is no stretch to assume that much hard work and creative time will pay off for an unbelievable production of the ancient Greek comedy, Lysistrata.

For those interested in being a part of the play, auditions start tonight at 7:30 in the Harriet Fulton Theatre, located in the Fine Arts Building.