Beaconsfield’s Jake Oliver is busy performing in Monash University’s latest production, the ancient Greek drama Antigone.By Rebecca Fraser
A TALENTED Beaconsfield actor took to the stage last night when he performed in the opening night of Monash University’s latest production, Antigone.
Jake Oliver is just one of many students from the university’s Graduate Ensemble of the Centre for Drama and Theatre to perform in the play, which revisits one of dramatic literature’s most celebrated women.
Under the guidance of acclaimed director Peter Oyston, the cast in Sophocles’ Antigone will perform today (Wednesday) and tomorrow night at the Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton.
Mr Oliver, 22, completed a Bachelor of Performing Arts at Monash University last year and is now part of the university’s Honours program.
Instead of completing an individual thesis this year, Mr Oliver said he and his fellow Honours students would be assessed on three ensemble productions.
Mr Oliver plays Haemon, the king’s son, in the updated Greek drama and said he greatly enjoyed performing in front of a live audience.
The former Haileybury College student studied drama and theatre as part of his VCE and has performed in other productions, including the role of Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar.
Antigone was written 2500 years ago by Sophocles, one of the greatest playwrights of all time.
Mr Oyston has updated the classic tragedy into a contemporary piece drawing on political parallels with today’s current affairs.
“This new adaptation of Sophocles’ Antigone is fresh and accessible in its language and its political ideas,” he said.
“The issues of political arrogance and the creation of unfair laws to increase the power of government are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.
“In ancient Greece, Antigone’s fight for justice and honour could be one that happens here and now in our own society.”
Antigone will be performed today at 1pm and 8pm, and tomorrow at 8pm at Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton.
For bookings call 9905 1111 between 9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for concession and education groups are $8 (minimum numbers apply).
