by KYW's Bob Nelson
 
If you're into Greek mythology you're familiar with the legendary narrative involving Orpheus, the big-time poet-musician, and his beautiful wife Eurydice.
 
The Wilma Theatre is currently offering a special take on the familiar legend in which Eurydice has a run-in with snakes and ends up in the underworld, from which her husband tries in vain to free her.
 
While that's the core of the standard legend, it remains for the gifted playwright Sarah Rule to offer her own interpretation, which she titles simply, "Eurydice."
 
It's elaborately staged with a haunting, live musical score. We're offered a special interpretation of the woman who exchanges an obvious loss from the world of the living for the love of a father she finds in her new world.
 
I'm certain that there will be those who insist this new interpretation, Directed by Blanka Zizka, is annoyingly innovative.
 
Merritt Janson (right) is wonderful in the title role. This new Eurydice offers unique design and dialogue that will stay with us for some time.

It runs through June 1st at the Wilma Theatre, 265 South Broad Street ("Avenue of the Arts"), in center city Philadelphia.