Antigone
adapted by Richard McElvain
2004-2005 Season

The first play of The Nora Theatre Company’s 2004-2005 season is Antigone, in a new adaptation from the Sophocles by award-winning actor and accomplished playwright/adapter, Richard McElvain, directed by Daniel Gidron.

Passion. Politics. Pride. In times of fundamental threats to the security of a nation, at what point does the state’s safety take precedence over the individual freedoms and personal consciences of its citizens? When does a government overreach its task? Can a leader admit he is wrong? In this gritty new adaptation of a classic story of a young woman who must follow her own heart and defy the law of the land, the timeless themes and uneasy questions of loyalty, patriotism and personal morality are illuminated afresh in a vivid contemporary context.

McElvain, an Elliot Norton Award-winning actor, has been writing, translating and adapting plays for thirty years. His most recent projects include adaptations of Moliere’s The Miser and Le Bourgeoise Gentilhomme. “I think it’s imperative to explore the themes of this play during this election year,” said McElvain, “In the character of Creon, we have an overreaching leader who cannot admit any mistakes, and is willing to compromise the rights of individuals to advance his political and personal agenda. The consequences of his choices are staggering. Additionally, I am fascinated by the larger theme of self-knowledge. The important thing in life is to know who we are and why we try to do things.”

Mary C. Huntington added, “Greek playwrights mercilessly examined our human nature, including our destructive impulses. Several local theaters have produced Greek plays recently and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that we’re turning to these remarkable playwrights for sustenance and self-knowledge as we witness the course of current events during this tense time.”

Daniel Gidron, director of last season’s critically acclaimed Full Gallop at The Nora, is at the helm of this cast of nine lead by McElvain, who is playing the role of Creon, and Marianna Bassham in the title role. Set design is by Brynna Bloomfield, who returns to The Nora after designing the set for last season’s hit, Full Gallop; Original music and sound design by Dewey Dellay, whose last projects with The Nora include Van Gogh in Japan and Full Gallop. Costume designer Jacqueline Dalley returns to The Nora after Van Gogh in Japan as well.