Abigail Willis is excited to be a part of Sinclair Community College’s upcoming production of “Antigone.” Because she anticipated being cast in the chorus, Willis was surprised to learn she was cast as the title character.
The play tells the story of Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus the King, and her struggle against Creon, the ruler of Thebes.
“A war had just happened before ‘Antigone,’ and I think ‘Antigone’ is a continuation of that war between two strong and powerful people,” Willis said. “The war has left the battlefield only to continue between Antigone and Creon.”
As an act of personal revenge, Creon refuses a burial for Antigone’s brother, denying him an important cultural and religious norm. Though his actions are clearly against Greek values, Antigone is the only person who stands up to Creon for her brother’s rights.
“Anyone can relate to witnessing a wrong happen and debating whether or not they can stand up, debating whether or not they have the power to do anything,” Willis said.
Willis describes her character as a strong-willed, stubborn, passionate diva-queen who knows who she is and what is right.
“She won’t allow anyone to diminish her or take away her self-worth,” Willis said. “She’s kick-ass, and I think girls can appreciate that.”
Willis adds that Antigone is not the ideal Greek woman—quiet, dutiful and childbearing—but her sister Ismene is. In one passage, Ismene tells Antigone to refrain from fighting Creon because Antigone is a woman and therefore should bow to a man’s authority.
“(The passage) fits the times, but I think hearing that now… helps me play Antigone,” Willis said. “When I hear those words I feel this rage build up inside me, and Antigone felt that rage.”
Willis said she enjoys being under the direction of Professor Emeritus Robert MacClennan, who also directed the play in 1990.
“He doesn’t pull any punches, he’ll tell you what he wants, and I appreciate that,” Willis said. “He’s creating a nice structure for us to build upon.”
Willis believes “Antigone” is going to be an exciting melodrama that students can both relate to and enjoy.
“The play is going to be dark, fun, intense and passionate, and we are so excited to bring this to Sinclair,” Willis said. “I think it’s going to be a huge success.”
“Antigone” will run from Feb. 19 until Feb. 27 with a show every day except Monday, Feb. 22. Show times and tickets can be found here.