Uncovering the Forgotten Voices of History: Playwright Harley Elias Brings Ancient Rivalries to Life

Harley Elias, a self-proclaimed "history nerd," has a penchant for unearthing obscure periods of the distant past and bringing them to life on the stage. His latest play, "The Handless King," which is set to premiere at Fort Worth's Amphibian Stage, delves into a pivotal moment in the history of communication and technology – the transition from cuneiform on clay tablets to Aramaic on leather or parchment.

Unlocking the Secrets of the Ancient World

Inspired by a Remarkable Relief

Elias' fascination with this historical shift was sparked by a relief from 728 B.C.E. that depicts a pair of scribes from the Assyrian Empire using two different writing methods. Intrigued by the potential for conflict and drama, Elias imagined a deadly rivalry between the eunuchs over this technological breakthrough. The play, "The Handless King," explores the themes of state power, empire, political revolution, and the role of the scribe as both an instrument and a potential agent of change.

Delving into the World of Cuneiform and Aramaic

Elias' deep dive into the history of writing systems began during his time at Brown University, where he studied cuneiform in the department of Assyriology. This hands-on experience allowed him to immerse himself in the world of the ancient scribes, whose job was often to count the dead bodies from battle. The play's three characters – the two scribes, Ubru and Dilgan, and the Administrator, a representative of the army – grapple with the implications of this technological shift, both for their own livelihoods and for the broader political landscape.

Bringing History to Life through Humor and Irony

Elias' approach to historical storytelling is unique in that he infuses his plays with a sense of humor and irony. He believes that these elements are often lost in the retelling of the past, leaving us with only the most serious and successful versions of events. By exploring the "badness" of history – the knock-knock jokes and the lesser-known stories – Elias aims to rescue a more authentic and relatable portrayal of the human experience.

A Lifelong Passion for the Theater

Elias' own journey into the world of theater began at a young age, when he was captivated by the epic storytelling of "Les Misérables." This early exposure to the power of live performance ignited a passion that has continued to shape his career. From acting on Broadway and in national tours to earning degrees in history and art history, and ultimately pursuing a master's in playwriting, Elias has honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling.

Uncovering the Whispers of the Past

Elias' fascination with the obscure corners of history stems from a desire to connect with his own ancestral roots, as well as a belief that these lesser-known stories hold a unique power to captivate and enlighten. By listening to the "whispers" of the past, Elias seeks to uncover the humanity and complexity that often gets lost in the grand narratives of history. Through his plays, he invites audiences to step into the shoes of those who have been marginalized or forgotten, and to explore the universal themes of power, revolution, and the human condition.

A Playwright's Dream: Capturing the Beauty of Human Language

Elias' passion for writing extends beyond the stage, as he is constantly on the lookout for the most beautiful and evocative turns of phrase. Whether it's a chance remark overheard on the street or a line of dialogue from a historical text, Elias is driven by a desire to capture the essence of human expression and to share it with his audience. This pursuit, he says, is the "playwright's dream" – to get closer and closer to the heart of what makes us human, one word at a time.