Back to the Washington State Cougars Newsfeed

‘The Epic of Gilgamesh’ unfolds outdoors

A review of Theater Schmeater’s rollicking outdoor production of an ancient Sumerian tale, adapted by Julia Leonas and directed by J.D. Lloyd.

The ancient Sumerian “Epic of Gilgamesh” (25,000 B.C.) is thought to be the oldest written story in human history.

In the tale — as presented outdoors by Theater Schmeater this summer — the wiry and nimble Gilgamesh (Ronnie Hill), King of Uruk, is two-thirds God and one-third man. It’s a combination that leads him into trouble.

Not until the overwhelmingly large, strong, and smart human, Enkidu (Aaron Allshouse), arrives on the scene, does Gilgamesh find a worthy companion.