The American Repertory Theater will stage the world premiere of the rock-musical Prometheus Bound from February 25 through April 2 at Oberon, located at 2 Arrow Street in Harvard Square, Cambridge.

The A.R.T. in partnership with Amnesty International is dedicating the performances of Prometheus Bound to eight Amnesty actions to free prisoners of conscience throughout the world. The American Repertory Theater will be dedicating specific performances to these prisoners of conscience; letters will be collected and post-show demonstrations will be held—in an effort to demand equal rights for all.  Actor Gavin Creel  said, “Of course we’re just storytellers for the most part—but, each week two cases of prisoners of conscience will be discussed after the performances.”

The musical portrays one man’s struggle against tyranny. It stars Gavin Creel as Prometheus, the original prisoner of conscience.  Prometheus Bound will be directed by Diane Paulus.

The script and lyrics have been adapted by award-winning playwright Steven Sater from the ancient Greek play by Aeschylus.  The music was composed by the Grammy Award-winning lead singer of System of a Down, Serj Tankian. 

Creel explained that Serj Tankian held a workshop in December where he played some of the music for this rock-musical. Creel explained, “[Tankian] is totally game for his music to be part of this.”  He also said, the playwright, “Steven [Sater] has been involved from the start.”

The rock-musical is based on the ancient myth, where Prometheus was punished for stealing fire to give to man. He was punished by Zeus by being tied to a rock and having his liver pecked out by a bird.  The musical is set in modern times under a brutal dictator.  Of the part, Creel said, “it’s an intense character—I’m still feeling it out; [playing Prometheus] is a real challenge.” 

The performance of Prometheus Bound will run 80 minutes without an intermission.  Tickets begin at $25.  Student rush tickets can be purchased for $15.  Seniors receive $5 off regular ticket prices.  For more information and show times, visit www.americanrepertorytheater.org.