Greek tragedy gets a modern twist

Six young artists are bringing a political adaption of Greek classic Antigone to Geelong’s Courthouse Youth Arts on October 26.

The Geelong Edge ensemble explore themes of racism that Western Edge Youth Arts’ artistic director Dave Kelman said were relevant in today’s society.

“The ensemble has created a play that highlights the scapegoating of minorities by political interests for short-term gain; something that is happening increasingly both in Australia and internationally,” he said.

“Through a refreshing cultural lens, Antigone investigates the complexity of racism today and poses the question, why are people from refugee backgrounds not always valued for their contributions to society?”

Craig Gunguta, an African-Australian youth who plays Polynices said politicians’ views can have disastrous effects.

“They put their views about us through the media, this play gives us a platform to tell everyone how that affects our lives,” he said.

“Some of the things said about our community on social media are really dangerous and puts us in a vulnerable position; people don’t know about us and get the wrong impression.”

Mr Kelman said this interactive performance is an allegory for current political events in Australia where minority groups are “vilified by politicians”, and explores the challenges faced by a young woman who stands against her lover and the state.

Irene Bakulikira, who plays Antigone, said the play is about the life of a girl who is stuck in two worlds, blinded by love and not knowing the reality of things surrounding her.

Created and performed by Irene Bakulikira, Eto Masoka, Kiril Stamenkov, Craig Gunguta, Sila Toprak and Finn Lloyd, the ensemble represents Australian cultural diversity and brings an unheard and authentic youth voice to the main stage.

The ensemble has been developing Antigone through interactive performances in six schools in Geelong for the past six months and recently received an Outstanding Contribution to the City of Greater Geelong from Geelong City Council.

They were also finalists for the Victorian Government Group Achievement in the Community Award in 2017.

Antigone is presented by Western Edge Youth Arts in partnership with Courthouse Youth Arts on October 26 at 8pm at 60 Little Malop Street, Geelong.

Free tickets available at courthouse.org.au/ticket/geelong-edge.