Graduation Festival
AFDA Study Year: Year 3
Genre: Theatre
Running Time: 60
Rating: PG
Viewing Restriction: 13
"Antigone," a Greek tragedy by Sophocles, centers on the conflict between individual conscience and state law. Set in Thebes, the play follows the aftermath of a civil war in which two brothers, Eteocles and Polynices, kill each other. The new ruler, Creon, declares that Eteocles will receive a proper burial, but Polynices, deemed a traitor, is to be left unburied, a severe dishonor in Greek culture. Antigone, the sister of both dead brothers, defies Creon’s edict, driven by her religious duty and familial loyalty. She performs burial rites for Polynices, risking her life to honor her brother’s memory. When caught, Antigone is unapologetic, standing by her moral and religious convictions despite Creon's decree. Creon’s stubbornness escalates the conflict. He views Antigone’s act as a direct challenge to his authority and maintains his stance despite pleas from his son Haemon, who is also Antigone’s fiancé. Haemon argues for compassion and flexibility, but Creon remains resolute. This rigidity leads to a tragic chain of events: Antigone is sentenced to death, and Haemon, in despair, takes his own life. The tragedy intensifies as Creon’s wife, Eurydice, learns of their son’s death and also takes her own life. Overwhelmed by grief and realizing the consequences of his actions, Creon is left to face the ruin he has wrought. The play ends with Creon’s profound regret and the devastating fallout of his rigid adherence to law over human and divine compassion. "Antigone" explores themes of duty, law, and familial loyalty, examining the tensions between personal ethics and state mandates. Sophocles’ drama underscores the complexities and consequences of moral choices and the impact of pride and inflexibility on both individuals and society.
Elizabeth-Ann - Fosu
Writer - Sophcles
Director - Khanya Ngcuka
Executive Producer - Thato Mathole
Production Designer - Cameron Moodie
Costume, Make-up and Styling - Asiphe Lili