Devoted actors from Benenden’s Lower Fifth (Year 9) to Six Two (Year 13) thrilled audiences with their imaginative interpretation of Antigone last week.
Across three nights, parents, students and staff were delighted by the impassioned production of the classic Greek tragedy, first written by Sophocles and reimagined by Bertolt Brecht.
With ardent lead performances, visually spectacular ensemble choreography and evocative costume and set design, the finished adaptation was an emotive, haunting depiction of Antigone’s defiance in the face of tyrannical leadership.
The production is the first to be overseen by Benenden’s newly appointed Director of Drama, Matthew Zanetti-Springett, who wanted to stage a classical play that would nevertheless resonate with contemporary audiences. “Antigone, despite being written over two and a half thousand years ago, still feels strikingly relevant,” he said.
“The themes of moral conflict, the tension between personal values and political authority, and the courage to stand up in the face of tyranny reflect the state of our relationships and politics now, perhaps more than ever.”
The serious subject matter didn’t stop students from relishing the rehearsal process, however. Six Two Claudia, who starred as the titular heroine, reflected: “This has definitely been the most challenging part I’ve ever had to play, and so it’s a testament to Mr Zanetti-Springett and Mrs Hughes that rehearsals never stopped being fun.”
The students’ effort and enthusiasm combined were showcased perfectly across the play’s three-night run, which saw the Benenden Theatre alive with rapturous applause at each curtain call.
Reflecting on the students’ immense hard work, Mr Zanetti-Springett said: “It has been a truly joyous experience to work with such a fantastically dedicated, talented and committed group of students.
“Their hard work, creativity and passion have been extraordinary, and I couldn’t be more proud of the journey we’ve taken together.”
Benenden will look forward to sharing its junior production, a retelling of Alice in Wonderland, with audiences in the Spring Term.
