Dido of Idaho, playwright Abby Rosebrock’s thoughtful and engaging play, loosely inspired by the myth of Dido and Aeneas from Virgil’s Aeneid, gets a fine outing from the Echo Theater Company under the direction of Abigail Deser. Like Dido, Rosebrook’s heroine Nora, an adjunct professor of music, despairs over the impending departure of her lover Michael, an older professor of English. Both share a love of Purcell’s operatic rendition of Virgil’s myth, particularly Dido’s signature aria, “Dido’s Lament.”

Nora is desperately in love with Michael, who unfortunately is married and, while promising to leave is wife Crystal, is stalling because her mother is dying. The play revolves around Nora’s ongoing confusion and indecision about her relationship with Michael and explores her relationship with her mother and her own childhood insecurities.

While some of the story may seem familiar, Rosebrook brings a distinctive and often very funny perspective to Nora’s quest. A very talented ensemble of actors brings the play to life under Deser’s very sharp and intelligent directing. Alana Dietze in the role of Nora, brings both insight and vulnerability to her character, portraying her less as victim than as adventurer in her life’s journey. Nicole DuPort, in the role of Michael’s wife Crystal, gives a marvelous, hilarious performance, bringing real life and vitality to her multi-dimensional character. Joby Earle is terrific as boyfriend Michael, and Julie Dretzin and Elissa Middleton are wonderful as Nora’s mother and her girlfriend.

With this production of Abby Rosebrock’s play, the Echo Theater Company continues its tradition of excellence in introducing new writers and plays to Los Angeles, presented by an outstanding ensemble of performers and directors.

Dido of Idaho—Previews July 17th, 18th, 19th; Opening July 20th; Closing August 26th. @ The Echo Theater Company. Tickets.