A fascinating exploration of IVF, cloning, disease prediction and prognosis, stem cell research, euthanasia, genetic counselling, DNA sampling and forensics is the next production for the Monash University Academy of Performing Arts’ Graduate Theatre Ensemble.

This modern adaptation of Sophocles’ classic play reframes the agonizing events of his drama into a relevant context for today.

Set in an imagined genetics laboratory, Oedipus DNA asks “if you could know everything about yourself, how much do you want to know”? Our cells are the new oracle. An uneasy truce exists between religion and science with the boundaries of scientific knowledge pushing forward rapidly.

Oedipus DNA maintains the harmony and unity of Sophocles, and loses none of his brilliant use of dramatic irony. Visually, Oedipus DNA pays homage to artists Damien Hirst, Matthew Barney and Patricia Piccinnini, and their aesthetic preoccupation with the scientific, the extravagant, the biotechnological, and the theatrical.

This production will be directed by Naomi Edwards, who is an accomplished theatre director and teaching artist. She has directed productions for theatre and opera in Australia as well as internationally, including Noye's Fludde Victorian Opera, Rabbit Hole Red Stitch, Don's Party Assistant Director STC/MTC, Il Re Pastore Lyric Opera of Melbourne, Actors At Work Bell Shakespeare Company, Carmen Assistant Director, Opera Australia, Agoraphobics Clinic RADA, London, Plasticine Birmingham School of Acting, and Saving Anne London, Michigan, New York.

Naomi’s teaching credits include the Arts Centre, St Martins, National Theatre, Bell Shakespeare, VCA, Monash University; Deakin University, Lyric Hammersmith and RADA. She was awarded the 2000 YPAA Directing Mentorship. Naomi is a VCA graduate in Direction, and a board member of Theatreworks.