Stirring Greek Tragedy Unfolds in World War II-Era Crete

Artemis Productions is a company dedicated to showcasing Greek history and culture. Its production of “10 Stabs for 10 Bullets” handsomely furthers that goal. Set in Crete during World War II, writer-director Angeliki Giannakopoulos’ drama at the Beverly Hills Playhouse depicts the courage and sacrifices of overmatched islanders battling Nazi invaders.

Greek pride and grim determination are personified in Penelope (Anna Giannotis), a stern woman who endures hardship and loss with few words. Left by her family (Christina Sekeris, Dori Mizrahi) to help an aging priest (Dmitris Zorbas) while they fight the Germans, she soon becomes the caregiver for a motley band of resistance fighters and refugees.

Nicely detailed performances articulate the heroic qualities of these crusaders. Zuhair Haddad is engaging as a stalwart soldier who remains jovial in the face of adversity. Assured and effective cast substitutes included Tobe Sexton as the refugees’ savvy guide and Adoni Maropis as an eloquent freedom fighter who interjects poetic reflections on their struggle.

The harmonious assimilation of Jews into Greek society is depicted in the townspeople’s unselfish efforts to help an elderly Jewish couple (Daniel Fern, Sue Ozeran), and their generosity is reciprocated with the revelation that the guerrilla-poet is actually their son, portrayed in the mother’s memories by Paul Bagdasarian.

No big surprises here--true to historical detail, the islanders are hopelessly outgunned, and events unfold with the inexorable fate of--well, Greek tragedy.

While its political impact is undeniable, Giannakopoulos’ story is sketched in black-and-white contrasts that sacrifice dramatic shading and refinement. The heroes are never saddled with crises of conscience or character weaknesses; the villains, including a stereotypically greedy mayor (Paul Hayes) out to save his cowardly hide, have no redeeming qualities.

In addition, some opportunities are missed in the abundant narration of events taking place offstage--the story of a martyred islander recounted at length by an English soldier (David Hussey) could have been effectively staged.

Though the roots of the play’s stark morality are heavily colored by the strictest Grecian formula for tragedy, superb production values (Elina Katsioula’s elaborate set and Scott Davis’ evocative lighting) are thoroughly modern.

BE THERE

“10 Stabs for 10 Bullets,” Beverly Hills Playhouse, 254 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills. Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 and 7 p.m. Ends May 31. $22.50. (818) 789-8499. Running time: 1 hour, 55 minutes.