The Setting, Time, Places
TIME
From 319 B.C.E. to 311 B.C.E. During the wars of Alexander’s successors (the Diadochi). The action over time is compressed. Alexander III (the Great, as named by Caesar Augustus) died in Babylon, June, 323 B.C.E.
SCENERY
The story is conceived in terms of a series of scenes within the composite setting of an ancient Greek amphitheater. The setting has three basic levels
- the lower level (Level 1) is the orchestra,
- the middle level (Level 2, skene) is divided into two settings:
- the throne area (Level 2a);
- behind the throne area is the inner chamber behind two great doors (Level 2b).
- The upper level (Level 3) is the parapeted rampart, the roof of the skene.
The upper level (3), parapeted rampart of the castle where Olympias walks, with a view DS to Mt. Olympus, and SL to the harbor and sea should have steps on one side (SR); the rampart is the roof of the skene.
The middle level (2), skene, is the throne level (2a) on a long broad platform. At center are doors opening to an interior setting (2b). As suggested below, curtains might be used.
The lower scene for action (1), the so-called orchestra, DS, is the dancing circle.
That conception of a setting guided the author for the writing.
One suggestion is to reduce the complexity by using curtains. A curtain with rounded folds, perhaps on wooden forms at the top and/or bottom, could suggest columns of marble, if the material is marble colored. A spotlight set above each fold, washing down the length of the curtain fold, perhaps not even the whole length, could highlight each column. The curtain need not be cut for each column effect.
The platforms that rise to the rampart need only suggest the height of a full story. Several platform risers to the throne level should be broad enough in width for the action of a couple actors. The orchestra, or dancing place, need not be circular. The whole might be made quite simple. Think Globe Theater.
The use of set pieces, props and properties can suggest rather than acurately depict. Set pieces and their re-arrangement distinguish each setting. The opening scene requires on-stage costume changes which come out of a trunk sitting on the throne level, a few riser platforms up from the orchestra.
THE PLACES
The Palace at Dodona, the capitol of Epirus, the domicile and homeland of Queen Olympias. About 110 miles from Pella in Macedon. Perhaps 2000 miles from Babylon.
The Bedchamber of Antipater’s House in Pella, Macedon, next door to the Great Palace of Archelaos. (Level 2b)
The Royal Court at Pella, Capital of Macedon, where the Regent of Macedonia, Antipater, is ensconced. About 110 miles from Dodona, perhaps 2000 miles from Babylon.
The Castle at Pydna (Modern: Kitros).
The Palace at Amphipolis. A hall, before a great door (2a and 2b).
