ITF Main Stage: Antigone in Munich

Troupe 2075 from Mount Carmel Academy, an all-female high school in New Orleans, Louisiana, has been garnering attention for their powerful production of Antigone in Munich by Claudia Haas. Drawing inspiration from Sophocles’ classic Greek tragedy, the play brings new life to the timeless themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice by recounting the story of a group of German university students who resist the Nazi regime during World War II. The production has been selected to perform at the International Thespian Festival in June 2023.

Kristi Jacobs-Stanley, director of the production and teacher at Mount Carmel Academy, shared, “We selected Antigone in Munich because of its relevance to the current world situation. The play is about moral courage and resistance, and it is an important reminder that we all have a responsibility to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.”

The story of Sophie Scholl and the White Rose Society is not as well-known as other World War II stories, but it is one that is so identifiable today. Sophie and her friends faced great danger as they spoke out against the Nazi regime, but their bravery and commitment to doing what was right continues to inspire people around the world. By updating the setting and reimagining the storyline of Sophocles’ Antigone, the play offers a fresh perspective on the original work, while still capturing its spirit and message. Through the character of Antigone, the play explores the importance of fighting for what is right, even when doing so comes at a great personal cost. Mount Carmel Academy’s talented cast and crew bring this powerful story to life, offering audiences a chance to reflect on the importance of courage, determination, and resilience.

Jacobs-Stanley also shared a fun fact about the production: “We had to get creative with our casting because we are an all-female school with limited access to male performers. So, some of our female actresses are playing male characters in the show!”

Finally, Jacobs-Stanley wanted readers to know that “theater offers us a great opportunity to tell important stories like Antigone in Munich and inspire audiences to take action. We hope that our production will encourage others to speak out against injustice and fight for what is right.”

If you’re attending the International Thespian Festival in June 2023, be sure to catch this inspiring production of Antigone in Munich and witness the power of theatre to tell important stories and inspire change. ♦