Menlo News January 22, 2024

ANTIGONE Anew

For the first time in Menlo Drama history, the audience will surround the cast onstage for a theater-in-the-round performance of ANTIGONE!

Exploring themes such as civil disobedience, morality, loyalty, authority, and gender, the one-act drama is as pertinent today as it was when it was first performed in ancient Greece over 2,500 years ago.

“Antigone is such a thought-provoking and passionate show that has remained relevant in the thousands of years in which it has been performed, constantly shifting based on the context of the time, place, and historical events,” says Noelle ’25. Amory ’24 agrees, calling it “timely and evocative.”

Set in a secretive command hub of a modern state power, Menlo Drama’s powerful translation of Sophocles’s Antigone resonates anew. The story is riddled with unabashed pride and tragic determination. Information, secrets, and clashes between right and wrong propel the drama toward a bloody point of no return.

Antigone’s two brothers have been killed in a battle to control the city-state of Thebes, once ruled by their father Oedipus. Creon, the new king of Thebes and also her uncle, has ordered one brother buried with honors, and the other to publicly rot. However, Antigone stands up to the new king. Resolved to abide by the Law of God, she defies her uncle and the Law of the State and ultimately pays a dear price.

“Antigone is a timeless story that highlights themes of grappling with internal moral conflict and feminism,” says Lucinda ’24. “It’s my first upper school show even though I’m a senior, but I’m so glad I went for it.”

In this majestic tale, the individual challenges the state, and order is balanced against chaos. In an age of rage, Antigone’s litany of injustice is enumerated but ultimately forgotten amidst fervor for a ‘better’ place of individual liberty, tolerance, and respect. “Antigone is such a special show because it is one-of-a-kind,” adds Amory. Not only is our audience on stage with us, but our cast is also tiny and close-knit. It lends towards the show being incredibly intimate, and very special.”

With only 85 seats available, the audience will surround the action, allowing for a visceral and immediate connection to the characters, themes, and storyline. “The show is dramatic, thought-provoking, and immersive, as the audience gets to watch up close!” says Marissa ’27.

Come support the cast and crew! Limited on-stage seating; get tickets now!

  • February 2nd 7:30pm
  • February 3rd, 7:30pm
  • February 4th, 5:00pm