Aristophanes' classical comedy Lysistrata opens at The Republic Museum Garden, on Oct. 25 in Rio de Janeiro. The play will be performed in the open air, and closes on Feb. 1, 1998.

Aristophanes, Athenian playwright, is considered one of greatest writers of comedy in literature. His plays have been performed throughout the centuries and because of their wit, comic invention and poetic language, have always remained popular. Lysistrata a war satire, is one of his best-known works.

It tells the story of Athenian women who tired of men´s never ending war games and decide to fight back under the command of a strong minded female named Lysistrata. In order to restore peace in the city they announce that they will practice celibacy, until the troops have surrendered. Lysistrata has the "Atirei o Pau no Baco Comany" in the cast.

The Republic Museum is one of the most important historical sites of Rio de Janeiro. Its greenery is surrounded by walls anchored by pavillions at the axial points. It dates back to 1800 when Rio was the capital city of the Republic of Brazil. It has often been used as a site for classical plays like those of Shakespeare, and Greco-Roman works.

Performances on Sat. and Sun. - 8 PM
Tickets cost R$10,00
Information call 021 285 6350 at The Republic Museum Theatre Garden - Rio de Janeiro. -- By Nertutila Achao
Brazil Correspondent