Even though Aristophanes lived over 2,000 years ago, his writings live on and continue to have relevance today.

As proof, the Aquila Theatre Company of London will present Aristophanes’ “Birds” at the Ames City Auditorium tonight at 7 p.m.

“Birds” is widely regarded as Aristophanes’s greatest play. It was originally produced in 414 B.C., in Athens during a time of social upheaval and civil strife.

It tells the story of two ordinary men in search of a better life as far as possible from the city and its courts, corrupt politicians and endless war. The men persuade the Birds to join them in the creation of a new city and “Cloudcuckooland” is born.

What follows is hilarious comedy that is as relevant today as it was 2,500 years ago. Based in London, the Aquila Theatre Company has gained well-earned international reputation as one of the foremost producers of classical theater. The company’s specialty is fresh, innovative productions of ancient Greek plays.

It was founded in 1990 by Peter Meineck, who is also producing “Birds.” Aquila has received a prize for Dramatic Excellence from the Greek government and two prestigious British Council Touring awards.

The theater company will also put on two workshops today. The first is titled “The Mask: Comedy and Tragedy.” The company will demonstrate and experiment with various techniques associated with masked acting, movement, the portrayal of emotions, delivery of text and the use of masks in a tragic or comic context. It starts at noon in the Recital Hall of the Music Building.

The second workshop, “Greek Drama: From the Page to the Stage,” examines the dramatic presentation of Greek tragedy. Participants will work on a scene from Greek tragedy or comedy and explore the difficulties of staging the piece for a modern audience.

This workshop starts at 2 p.m. in the Recital Hall of the Music Building.

“Birds” will show in the Ames City Auditorium, 515 Clark Ave., and is scheduled to last about one hour, 45 minutes. Admission is free.