Photo Flash: Actors of Dionysus Put an Edgy Twist on ANTIGONE

Actors of Dionysus take Sophocles' ancient Greek classic Antigone and place it into a dystopian world where fate is written in code and drones flock across the skies. Directed by aod's Artistic Director Tamsin Shasha and written by British-American playwright Christopher Adams (Lynchburg and Haunts), Antigone will tour the UK from 14th September 2017.

This blistering new adaptation begins in the aftermath of a violent battle for the control of Thebes. Antigone's two brothers, Polyneices and Eteocles, have both died. The new ruler Creon declares that Eteocles will be honoured, while the rebel Polyneices will not be buried but left in limbo to relive his death over and over again for all eternity. Antigone's grief turns to defiance. She dares to take a stand for what she believes in and comes up against Creon's authority.

Actors of Dionysus specialise in new adaptations inspired by ancient Greek Drama and Greek myths. They have been producing and touring plays both in the UK and internationally for over 24 years. In this ground-breaking production, aod have created a dystopian Antigone inspired by Sophocles' original play. On adapting this Greek classic, the Director, Tamsin Shasha said: "At the heart of this production is aod's desire to challenge audience perceptions and transform ancient themes into relevant, urgent and powerful theatre. We want this intrinsic part of our dramatic heritage to remain accessible to modern audiences."

The company were awarded Arts Council funding for the research and development phase of Antigone and during early exploration workshops they were inspired by Sci-Fi films like Tom Cruise's Minority Report and by Charlie Brooker's Black Mirror TV series. This led the company to create a new ground-breaking adaptation which makes use of some unusual technology. The Associate Director, Deirdre Daly said: "We will use real drones in this production - all seeing drones which hover around the stage, spying on every move the characters make, and sending reports back to the authorities".

The play features movement choreography by Ally Cologna (Brouhaha and Haste Theatre) and the music is composed by Matt Eaton (Medea, Helen with aod and The History Boys, UK tour). The production is designed by Helen Coyston (Goth Weekend, Stephen Joseph Theatre, Our Mutual Friend, Hull Truck Theatre).

Alongside the tour will be an extensive programme of workshops for schools and colleges. aod's Education Officer, Mark Katz said "We have a passionate commitment to our young people and students. We offer practical workshops for A' Level Theatre Studies, GCSE Drama and Classics students to support their learning and help them deepen their understanding of this text." aod have also created a unique Antigone education pack for teachers, exploring the characters and themes and their relevance in today's society.

Actors of Dionysus have received much acclaim for their previous productions which include She Denied Nothing, Helen, Lysistrata, Bacchae and Medea. They have toured internationally and at theatres and national parks across the UK. They have also performed on BBC Radio and have collaborated with Channel 4 and the BFI.

www.actorsofdionysus.com

Photo Credit: Alex Brenner

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