YSU Theater Presents WW II Adaptation of ‘Antigone’
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – University Theatre will conclude its season with “Antigone,” which opens Friday, March 31, and runs for two weekends.
Performances will take place in Ford Theater, lower level of Bliss Hall on the Youngstown State University campus, at 7:30 p.m. March 31 and April 1, 6 and 7; and 2 p.m. April 2 and 8.
“Antigone” is an adaptation of the ancient tragic play by Sophocles. Todd Dicken is the director.
Written in 1942 by Jean Anouilh during the German occupation of France, the play was first performed in Paris on Feb. 6, 1944, under Nazi censorship.
The story revolves around the conflict between the idealist Antigone and her rigid uncle, Creon, over the proper burial of Antigone’s brother, Polynices. The play was also interpreted to represent the French Resistance movement’s struggle against the Vichy government’s forces during the height of the Nazi occupation.
YSU’s production of “Antigone” is a modern interpretative look at the themes of idealism, totalitarianism and political heroism, as well as the aftermath of war and the trail of victims left behind.
The time period is contemporary, with a nonrepresentational, utilitarian set. Although fantasy-like, the costumes nod to Corsican/Ukrainian roots while wearing Greek-style half-masks.
The three chorus members who represent the voice of societal “uber-gods” are accessorized with slightly larger-than-life stick puppets.
Projections are inserted throughout the production with images of conflicts from the ancient past to the present.
“Although the play tackles heady subject matter, it also has tender moments and even a few scenes of comic levity, allowing the audience to hopefully leave the theater with robust discussions on myriad life topics,” Dicken said.
Tickets are $16 (discounts are available for non-YSU students, YSU alumni, senior citizens and groups of eight or more). All seats are general admission. To purchase in advance, call 330 941 3105 or go to ysu.tix.com.
Pictured at top: Nicholas Figiel, who plays Haemon, and Meganne Evans as Antigone rehearse a scene from University Theatre’s “Antigone.”
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
