Adapted by Carey Perloff with original music by David Coulter
Directed by Carey Perloff
Some truths can't be unseen
Sept 9-27, 2026 Experience Sophocles’ epic trilogy brought to life in a sweeping tale of fate, prophecy, and reckoning. This fresh adaptation breathes life into the ancient tale of a king’s search for truth—and the devastating consequences of what he finds.
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes (including a 15-minute intermission).
Show advisory
Oedipus: King/Colonus includes the tragic story of Oedipus, including his fate to kill his father and marry his mother. The production also refers to him stabbing out his eyes, but this happens offstage. Oedipus appears on stage with “bloodied” eyes; this scene might be disturbing for some viewers. There is no explicit violence or sexual content.
Previews not only cost less, but they allow you to be among the first audience members to experience Oedipus King/Colonus. Be an early adopter and earn bragging rights that you saw it first.
REGISTER
Studio 101, Joan H. Gillings Center for Dramatic Art
Wednesday, Sep 9 at 6:00 p.m.
This pre-show event is free and open to the public.
Join costume designer Lex Liang as he presents the Sanford Family Lecture in conjunction with Oedipus: King/Colonus that we’re calling PINNING DOWN TRAGEDY: Fabric, Form, and Fate in Oedipus and Beyond.
Lex is an award-winning production designer for theatre and live events. His scenic and costume designs have been seen across the country and around the globe at various Off-Broadway, regional, and international theatre and dance venues. Visit his website to learn more about his work: https://lexliang.com/
Join us for the Opening performance of Oedipus: King/Colonus followed by a celebration in the lobby with light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Get your playbill signed, meet the artists, and enjoy the festivities together.
Special Thanks to Epilogue and Glasshalfull
Watch to see what Opening Nights are like at PlayMakers!
Oedipus: King/Colonus might not be the show for your young one to enjoy, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join you. PlayMakers has partnered with Seed Art Share to provide on-site childcare for ages 4-12 with engaging, theatre-based fun while you enjoy the performance.
ASL Interpreters and Audio Description will be available for patrons. For the best view of the ASL Interpreters, please contact the Box Office at 919.962.7529 or prcboxoffice@unc.edu.
Photos
Photo of David Coulter with the Colonus chorus by HuthPhotoPhoto of Nike Imoru with Jim Bray and Julia Gibson by HuthPhotoPhoto of Tia James, Michael Hayden, and Jeffrey Blair Cornell by HuthPhotoPhoto of Celeste Pelletier, Michael Hayden and Caroline Marques by HuthPhotoPhoto of the Tyrannos chorus with Michael Hayden and Tia James by HuthPhotoPhoto of Tia James, Jim Bray, Jeff Aguiar, Michael Hayden and Julia Gibson by HuthPhotoPhoto of Tia James with Samuel Ray Gates and Dawson Boudreaux by HuthPhotoPhoto of Jim Bray by HuthPhotoPhoto of Jeffrey Blair Cornell with Trevele Morgan and Michael Hayden by HuthPhotoPhoto of Michael Hayden and Dawson Boudreaux with Julia Gibson and Jim Bray by HuthPhotoPhoto of Celeste Pelletier, Michael Hayden, Caroline Marques and Nike Imoru by HuthPhoto
Adapter and Director Carey Perloff talks about her interest in the Oedipus trilogy, and what makes this world premiere special.
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