Salome at Benedum Center for the Performing Arts

Based on the play by the one and only Oscar Wilde, Salome recreates the biblical story of King Herod, his daughter Salome and John the Baptist (called Jochanaan).

Princess Salome is obsessed with Jochanaan, who is being held prisoner in her father King Herod’s dungeon. She is filled with an overwhelming desire for him and wants to kiss him, but he rejects her. King Herod, meanwhile, fancies his own daughter Salome, much to his wife Herodias’ disgust. Herod implores Salome to dance for him, promising to reward her with her heart's desire – even if it were one half of his kingdom.

Sensing an opportunity, Salome agrees and performs the seductive “Dance of the Seven Veils”. This dance, a sort of biblical strip tease, has her slowly removing her seven veils until she lies naked at her father’s feet. Having danced for her father, Salome intends to make good on Herod’s promise to give her whatever she wants. What she wants is the head of the prophet Jochanaan, presented on a silver platter. Herod tries to no avail to change her mind, and ultimately he is forced to accede to her demands.

Salome holds her trophy triumphantly. Jochanaan had prevented her from kissing his lips before- now she mocks him and passionately kisses his severed head. Disgusted and terrified, Herod has his guards kill Salome as the curtain falls.