Level 3 Drama students from Southwark College recently delivered spectacular performances of Antigone by Roy Williams as part of the Creative Arts Summer Show 2024, showcasing their talent and dedication. The play is a modern-day adaptation of the original version by Sophocles, delving into themes of war, arrogance, abuse of power, civil disobedience, love, loyalty, and the fierce pursuit of justice.
The play unfolds the gripping tale of Antigone, the daughter of Oedipus, the king of Thebes. After Oedipus's death, a civil war for the throne ensued, leading to the demise of Antigone's brothers, Eto and Orrin. As the new king, Creo honoured Eto, leaving Orrin unburied as a traitor. Antigone defied Creo's order and buried Orrin, an act for which she was sentenced to death.
Under the guidance of their tutor, Michael Palmer, the students delivered a performance marked by a profound sense of calm, balance, and attention to detail. The incorporation of background sounds and music, coupled with the actors' expressive voices, created an atmosphere that resonated with the audience, evoking a sense of mourning and lamentation.
The students' adept handling of lengthy dialogues and their poignant portrayal of a young woman's unwavering determination to honour her fallen brothers left a lasting impact on the audience. Despite being a modern adaptation, the production captured the timeless essence of suffering, showcasing the enduring relevance of the play's themes.
Michael Palmer, Drama Lecturer at Southwark College, said: "A heartfelt congratulations to the exceptionally talented students, who poured their hearts and souls into this remarkable production. I'm delighted and proud to have worked with this group of talented young actors who made invaluable contributions to the show's success. It was a joy teaching this class. This group of students is one the most delightful set of individuals I have had the joy of teaching. I wish all the best to these remarkable students in their future careers in the performing arts sector."
The lead cast included Brandon Massett, Nathan Tati, Jahzyah Easton, Vanessa Oliveira, Safi Sabawoon, Adam Efenu-Kwakere, Hikmah Salawu and Kadiatu Humu Fofana.
The young actors reflected on their experiences taking this play to the stage. They said: "This course has been an incredible journey for all of us. It has shown us that we need to trust our abilities and has helped us grow as actors. Michael Palmer has been an amazing tutor, providing us with the knowledge and support we needed to succeed. Through this experience, we have improved our skills, explored our passion for acting, and gained a deeper understanding of how drama and acting work together. We are grateful for the challenges and guidance that have led us to success. The Drama course at Southwark College has been a fantastic experience that has shaped us into better actors and individuals."
The journey of staging Antigone at Southwark College is a testament to a nurturing learning environment that fosters dedication, teamwork, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence. We invite aspiring young talents to consider the transformative potential of studying drama at Southwark College, where they can embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and the realization of their full creative potential.
To learn more about our Creative Arts and Drama courses, please visit southwark.ac.uk/creativearts.
