Review: Antigone

Théâtre Excentrique showcases one of the most powerful reinterpretations of Sophocles’ tragedy in their production of Anouilh’s Antigone. Playing for a short season at the PACT Theatre, the play tells the harrowing story of the king’s lonely niece and her life ending decision to defy him in order to honour her deceased brother.

Starring a fiery Ellen WIlliams as the robust protagonist, Williams captivates her audience, ensuring her character’s strength is on full exhibit without compromising the remaining personas. The cast have convincing chemistry; NIDA graduate Neil Modra testing the obstinate ‘bride to be’ in a dramatic power struggle showdown.

A notable mention must be made to the three guards whose unfaltering timing delivered comedic excellence throughout. The play’s French speaking chorus was effectively led by a young cast from Blacktown High and provided the production with a subtle and welcomed framing.

The PACT Theatre provides the optimum opportunity for effective abstract staging. Utilising the space’s blankness and rotating roller stages, audiences are instantly transported back into the kingdom of Thebes, whose unwavering values upon family loyalty and civil obedience plague the young heroine’s mind.

Théâtre Excentrique injects a fresh burst into one of the most beloved Greek tragedies, with a set of charged performances that see the characters come to life.

Until 2nd May, PACT Theatre, Erskineville, Sydney, Tickets from $25, www.theatrexcentrique.com