During a time when people from marginalized communities continue to be condemned simply for existing, Theatre Prometheus boldly pushes back. The company is illuminating the stage with vibrant diversity and proving how refreshing it is to see performers who aren’t just — cough, cough — cis white men, who still dominate much of the theater world. A perfect example of this is the company’s production of John Lyly’s Galatea, currently performing at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center in Silver Spring, Maryland. The Saturday evening performance featured a talented and diverse cast that hilariously and wholeheartedly brought the play’s characters to life. Directed by Tracey Erbacher, the show was beautifully queer, unapologetically feminist, and an impressive reimagining of the Elizabethan-era play for a small professional theater.
Galatea is a dramatic comedy exploring themes of love, gender identity, and fate. Originally performed in 1588, the play is set in a mythical world ruled by Greek deities. It centers on two fathers who disguise their daughters, Galatea and Phillida, as boys to save them from being sacrificed to Neptune in a ritual meant to protect their country. The two disguised girls are sent into a forest, where — unaware of each other’s true identities — they fall in love. Meanwhile, a subplot featuring Cupid’s mischievous meddling with nymphs and divine powers adds a layer of whimsical chaos.
The show opened on a minimal yet colorful set that successfully created a mystical atmosphere. Dramatic lighting, ambient sound effects such as birds chirping and wind blowing, and expertly timed audio cues drew the audience into the otherworldly setting. A particularly charming touch was the use of modern pop love songs during scene transitions, giving this production a fun and contemporary flair.
Visually, the show was filled with symbolic and meaningful choices, especially in the costuming. A special shoutout goes to Cupid’s outfit, especially their eye-catching pink and blue sneakers — a clear nod to the trans flag. Galatea and Phillida’s costumes also stood out, featuring vibrant patterns of dots and stripes later in the play. The use of color to express queer joy was both clever and heartwarming.
Speaking of heartwarming, the chemistry between Amber Patrice Coleman (Galatea) and Cate Ginsberg (Phillida) was a highlight. Their portrayals were tender and believable, with both actors fully embracing the romantic arc of their characters. Their onstage connection made the story’s central love plot all the more compelling.
Although the entire cast delivered strong comedic performances, Tristin Evans, who played both Cupid and Populus, stole scenes with their expressive facial acting and impeccable comedic timing. Anabel Milton, in the roles of Tityrus and Telusa, was a standout as well — especially in her physical comedy moments, including a memorable slapstick sequence that had her rolling on the floor (literally). Rakell Foye as Diana and Matthew Crawford as Neptune delivered commanding performances that made it clear their characters were not to be trifled with, especially in moments of divine rage. Marley Kabin (Venus and Eurota) and Jenna Hochkammer (Melebeus and Ramia) also deserve recognition for their energetic, engaging performances, each adding flair and humor to the ensemble.
One of the most delightful elements of the evening was the unexpected amount of audience engagement. At one point, the show briefly turned into an improv performance when Crawford asked the audience to suggest an accent for one of his characters. The actors also broke the fourth wall multiple times to share inner thoughts or make humorous asides — an effective and funny way to invite the audience into the story and make them feel like part of the experience.
In conclusion, Theatre Prometheus’ Galatea is a joyful, empowering production that highlights the beauty of all kinds of love. It’s a must-see if you’re in the mood to laugh, reflect, and celebrate a version of theater that embraces queerness, feminism, and community with open arms.
Running Time: Approximately one hour and 30 minutes.
Galatea plays through May 10, 2025, presented by Theatre Prometheus performing at Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center – Studio Theatre, 7995 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD. Tickets ($0–$27) can be purchased online.
Galatea
By John Lyly
CAST
Galatea: Amber Patrice Coleman
Phillida: Cate Ginsberg
Neptune/Augur: Matthew Crawford
Cupid/Populus: Tristin Evans
Diana/Haebe: Rakell Foye
Venus/Eurota: Marley Kabin
Tityrus/Telusa: Anabel Milton
Melebeus/Ramia: Jenna Hochkammer
Understudy/Swing Track 1: Yael Schoenbaum
Understudy/Swing Track 2: Hedy Valentine
PRODUCTION TEAM
Director: Tracey Erbacher
Assistant Director: Natalia Huitz Corvoisier
Stage Manager: Jessica De Rocco
Assistant Stage Manager: Deacon Withers
Alternate Assistant Stage Manager: Grace Miller
Set & Props Designer: Simone Schneeberg
Scenic Painter: Megan Holden
Lighting Designer: Hannah Kelly
Sound Designer: Levi Manners
Costume Designer: Cheyenne Hill
Dramaturg: Katie Quinn
Intimacy Coordinator: Fiona H.R. Murphey
Production Manager: Cody Estep
Line Producer: Lauren Patton Villegas
Technical Director: Eric McMorris
Marketing Manager: Hannah Wing-Bonica
House Manager: Peter Devine
