Charlatan or sage? Is Socrates really one of the most ethical figures in the history of western civilization, an extraordinary man searching for justice, a student of the human condition who will inspire many of the world’s greatest thinkers throughout the ages? Or is he a fake and a cheat who deserves to be put to death for his corrupting effect on so many young people, some of whom went on to betray their country in time of war. How shall we decide?

In this exciting production, in which audience members get to vote as jury members, old questions and values are given an essentially modern interpretation and dilemmas faced become remarkably telling in this post-911 age.

Socrates on Trial is based on Aristophanes’ bawdy comedy Clouds and several of Plato’s dramatic dialogues, but given a contemporary and pithy twist  by UBC’s Andrew Irvine. Joan Bryans directs a large cast headed by Paul Toolin, with original music composed by Michael Rummen, lighting design by Mimi Abrahams, sound by Darren W. Hales, set by John R. Taylor, costumes by Catherine E. Carr, and stage management by Laura Moore. Socrates on Trial is sponsored by the University of British Columbia and the Hellenic Canadian Congress of B.C.