Modern Scoop on an age-old tale

The Heracleidae, or Children Of Hercules, is usually considered one of the more minor plays by Greek tragedian Euripides. But previous Steam Industry productions at The Scoop amphitheatre have shown this theatre group is keen to re-examine the ethical dilemmas presented in ancient plays in light of modern-day debates - and this is perfect fodder for them.

Greek hero Hercules is dead and his family is being persecuted by his enemy Eurystheus, King of Argos. King Demophon of Marathon grants them sanctuary but Eurystheus's army soon surrounds the city and the oracle declares that to win the war an 'unmarried daughter of a noble house' must be killed. 'I can't start ordering human sacrifices,' splutters Demophon, 'we'll have riots.' Cue debate about what lengths you should go to in order to protect persecuted people.

This very modern translation by Kenneth McLeish makes sure the theme of dispossessed political refugees seeking asylum is as in your face as possible, which at times feels like something of an insult to our intelligence. But the inclusive nature of the production, including leaving a cliff-hanger, 'you decide' ending, is engaging and the actors work hard against the elements in this outdoor, riverside setting.

It does, however, seem an odd decision by director Phil Wilmott to take the role of Demophon and play him in the most un-magisterial way imaginable: he spends most of the time looking like he wished he were anywhere else but there.

In rep until Aug 14, The Scoop, More London Riverside SE1, Wed to Sun 9pm, free. www.morelondon.com Tube: London Bridge/Tower Hill

Children Of Hercules