This adaptation is written for a highly flexible ensemble and may be performed with approximately 16 to 40+ performers. Roles may be doubled as desired, or expanded to accommodate larger casts.
The Festival of Athena framing allows actors to transform fluidly between villagers, storytellers, musicians, soldiers, politicians, attendants, and members of the chorus. Productions are encouraged to use these transformations theatrically, celebrating the imaginative spirit of live storytelling rather than literal historical realism.
The play welcomes performers of all ages, backgrounds, body types, and experience levels. Large ensembles may expand the Festival Villagers, Women of Greece, Men of Greece, Musicians, Dancers, Guards, and Attendants. Smaller companies may freely combine these roles through doubling.
The Herald serves as the primary storyteller and may be cast as any gender. The role of Lysistrata should be played by a woman. Other principal roles should generally follow the gender identities established in the script, though ensemble roles may be cast flexibly to meet the needs of each production.
Live musicians, singers, and dancers are encouraged but not required. Music may be performed by members of the cast or by a separate ensemble.
This adaptation embraces the joyful theatricality of Ancient Greek Comedy while encouraging each producing company to make the festival uniquely their own.