The plays unfolds in the wake of a civil war in which two brothers died. Their uncle orders a hero’s’ funeral for one while the other will be buried unmarked. Their sister, the titular Antigone, must decide how she will respond to the orders. It’s an updated version of the Greek play by Sophocles.
The McNary version will use modern language, and students will dress in modern, black and white clothing.
The original work is set in Ancient Thebes. But, aside from a few mentions of the city already in the play, McNary theater director Dallas Myers keeps the set deliberately minimal as if the action could have played out anywhere.
Sophocles’ tale is spun from Greek mythology, focusing on Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, who also is a protagonist in a Sophocles play.
For Belladina Starr, who plays Antigone, the role spoke to her deeply and immediately. She was given the script last year by director Dallas Myers to research a monologue.
“Within the first three pages, I wanted to play Antigone,” Starr said. “She stands up for what she believes in, it’s true to myself. If you believe in something you need to stand up and be true to yourself.”
Starr said she thinks it’s amazing that Sophocles, who lived circa 496 to 406 B.C., was able to create a play with a female lead who was so independent, smart and strong-willed. Her sex and what people say does not stop her from doing what she believes is right.
McNary’s run of Antigone begins Thursday, Nov. 10 at McNary and continues Nov. 11-12 and 17-19. Curtain time is 7 p.m. for all shows. Tickets are $5 in advance or at the door.
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