MSU Theatre Presents 2,400-Year-Old Greek Tragedy ‘Antigone’

Two brothers are dead. One is honored as a hero while the other is condemned as a traitor and denied a proper burial. Their sister Antigone defies the king’s orders, setting in motion a tragic confrontation over loyalty, justice, and moral responsibility.

The Michigan State University Department of Theatre brings Sophocles’ “Antigone,” written more than 2,400 years ago and adapted for modern audiences by Emily Mann, to the Pasant Theatre at Wharton Center for Performing Arts Nov. 6-15, 2026.

Two performers embrace during a rehearsal of MSU Theatre’s “Antigone” as fellow cast members watch from around the rehearsal space, some seated in chairs. — Rehearsal for “Antigone,” which runs Nov. 6-15 at the Pasant Theatre at Wharton Center for Performing Arts. *(Photo by Aryne Drews)*

Directed by Ann Folino White, Professor in MSU’s Department of Theatre, the production features 25 total cast members, which includes a 17-member chorus.

“Antigone is my favorite ancient Greek tragedy, and one of my favorite plays, because it raises profound moral and ethical questions without offering clear-cut answers,” White said. “Each time I read or teach [it], I struggle and fail to decide who is the protagonist and who is the antagonist.”

“Antigone is my favorite ancient Greek tragedy, and one of my favorite plays, because it raises profound moral and ethical questions without offering clear-cut answers.”
Ann Folino White, Professor and Director

MFA Acting candidate Shelby Parker plays Antigone opposite MFA Acting candidate Chamang Yang as Creon, her uncle and the new ruler of Thebes. Although Antigone is usually considered the heroine and Creon the tyrant, White sees two people convinced they are doing what is right. Their refusal to compromise leads to devastating consequences for both their family and city.

The consequences of their unyielding convictions are captured in a warning from the prophet Teiresias that White highlights as central to the play’s message: “Unless one of you stops, unless one of you breaks your deathly grip, unbending as you both are, you both will perish. And you will bring everything and everyone down around you.”

A performer in a red tank top sits on the floor during an MSU Theatre rehearsal of “Antigone” while other cast members stand nearby, including two performers who appear to be speaking. — Cast members rehearse for “Antigone.” *(Photo by Aryne Drews)*

“Antigone” was first performed around 441 BCE and has been retold for centuries. Mann’s 2005 adaptation introduces modern dialogue and a chorus that questions the characters’ motives and decisions throughout the performance.

“Antigone’s ancient civil war can be connected to contemporary questions of political authority and human dignity, which reminds us that even in conflict, humanity must not humiliate the dead,” dramaturg Ashley Romo said. “The play continues to challenge us to examine the tension between human law and divine law, as well as the fundamental responsibilities of an individual over the state.”

“The play continues to challenge us to examine the tension between human law and divine law, as well as the fundamental responsibilities of an individual over the state.”
Ashley Romo, Dramaturg

Beyond exploring these timeless themes, the production has given the cast opportunities to connect with one another and bring their own perspectives to the stage.

“Watching other chorus members react to the show in many different ways creates depth that has been really fun to play off every night,” said Sara Sodke, who plays one of the Soldiers.

Two performers face each other during a rehearsal of MSU Theatre’s “Antigone.” One wears a red sweater, while the other wears a red plaid shirt. — Cast members rehearse for “Antigone.” *(Photo by Aryne Drews)*

The demanding themes of “Antigone” haven’t prevented the cast from enjoying some lighthearted moments during rehearsals. Mylah Dorsey, understudy for the Guard, recalled one particularly memorable moment.

“During a break, everyone started playing tag like we were kids again,” Dorsey said. “That was one of my favorite rehearsals we’ve had.”

While the production has brought cast members together through shared experiences, it also invites audiences to reflect on the difficult questions at the heart of the ancient tragedy.

For White, the enduring power of “Antigone” lies in its ability to challenge audiences to question their own judgments, confront difficult moral choices, and recognize the humanity of those with whom they disagree.

Content notice: The production includes discussions of war, death, and grief, as well as depictions of death and suicide. It runs for 1 hour and 20 minutes without an intermission.