Oedipusreview: Deaf West returns the tragedy to its most physical form

The grief in the Getty Villa and Deaf West production of the Sophocles classic defies speech.

Oedipus,now playing through Oct. 1, is an excellent rendering of this.

Alexandria Wailes shines as his wife (and mother!

Oedipus. credit: Craig Schwartz

‘Oedipus’ at the Getty Villa.Craig Schwartz

Hensley is the jewel of the production, arresting in her depiction of its most potent events.

We don’t need the dialogue projected to understand.

The entire audience hangs on her every move, an expectant, attentive silence sweeping the crowd.

Oedipus. credit: Craig Schwartz

‘Oedipus’ at the Getty Villa.Craig Schwartz

In this moment, the purity of intent and execution is crystallized.

Oedipus at the Getty Villa

‘Oedipus’ at the Getty Villa.Craig Schwartz

Oedipus. credit: Craig Schwartz

‘Oedipus’ at the Getty Villa.Craig Schwartz