Feast Review – A Contemporary Look at Beowulf

Authored by comedian and playwright Megan Gogerty. FEAST premiered in Iowa City in 2019. FEAST currently makes its West Coast debut at the Count’s Den in Los Angeles. Based on the classic epic poem “Beowulf” – which many of you may remember from high school – FEAST takes a new and creative perspective by focusing not on Beowulf – or even Beowulf’s victim, the monster  and “mankind’s enemy” Grendel – but on Grendel’s mother, a nameless sea-hag (Erin Schlabach). In 2025, Leonix Movement Theatre in association with Immersive Art Collective presents the West Coast premiere of FEAST.

Erin Schlabach as the Sea-Hag- Photo by Ericka Kreutz

Director Laura Covelli opines: “One of the many interesting aspects about FEAST, for me, has been the exploration of how we view the idea of heroism…the archetype of a ‘hero’ throughout history has distinguishing qualities: they are noble, courageous, selfless, and desire to help others. But this all depends on who is telling the story. Beowulf is described with these characteristics, but if we reimagine the story, as the playwright asks of us, through the lens of imperialism and the destruction of life and natural resources in the name of acquisition, the heroes and villains in this epic story shift. While Grendel, as illuminated by his mom, is shown to be both a diplomate and a defender of nature, Beowulf and his band of merry soldiers suddenly become the true monsters we’ve inaccurately lauded throughout time. History is set forth by the winners, and this concept is what excited me about FEAST…the play shows us why the voices of the voiceless MUST be heard; and the epic poem Beowulf, when held up as an example of every incident of imperialism throughout time, suggests there is always a side we have not been allowed to know.”

Director Laura Covelli and Lighting Designer Niki Armato-r (foreground) – Photo by Ericka Kreutz

Grendel’s mom is throwing a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder and to tell her side of the mythic tale – only to find herself caught between her own guilt and overwhelming rage. For over one thousand years, we have been exposed to the tale of the brutal victory of man (the heroic Beowulf) over monster (Grendel). Now – experiencing the story through a mother’s eyes – we begin to question who is the monster. The solo play – written and originally performed by Megan Gogerty – now stars Erin Schlabach, Los Angeles-based performer, director, and educator whose work centers around storytelling, presence, possibility, and ritual. Here we have a woman who is not a woman but a magical and fantastic clay facsimile – perfectly positioned to question the very odd and often amusing customs and choices that humanity makes. But regardless of origin, she must also champion the value of women and mothers.

Erin Schlabach – Photo by Ericka Kreutz

Crisply helmed by Covelli, Schlabach creates in Grendel’s mother a powerful and intense figure who alternates between wit and confrontation, a frightening yet attractive character who draws the audience in and molds them with her expressive hands. The Count’s Den is a perfect venue for the play – intimate, shadowy, yet welcoming in a perverse way. As the story unfolds, tidbits of food on each table tempt audience members – while Grendel’s mom mentions the ritualistic eating of her dead son. Menus are even provided to add to the dinner party ambience.

Erin Schlabach After the Show – Photo by Elaine L. Mura

FEAST is a fascinating examination of a classic tale which will intrigue audiences and capture their unwavering attention. Perhaps the most controversial segment emerges in the last 15-20 minutes of the story – when the heightened high fantasy crashes into the contemporary political landscape, asking the audience to collectively contemplate climate change, income inequality, and the rising forces of authoritarianism. Somehow, slipping in present day issues did not sit comfortably with the fantastic and generations-old account of Beowulf.

Erin Schlabach – Photo by Ericka Kreutz

FEAST runs through April 6, 2025, with performances at 7 p.m. on Saturdays and at 5 p.m. on Sundays. The Count’s Den is located at 139 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Tickets are $45, $55, or $65. For information and reservations, call 818-669-5767 or go online.