Antigone (On Strike) Review

Reviewed by Lauren

Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review

Antigone (on strike) is a thought-provoking interactive production, written and directed by Alexander Raptotasios ,shining a light on the emotional intricacies and the imbalance of power when it comes to UK politics, and more specifically the racial discrimination fuelled by the Home Office. This fictional play mirrors the true story of Shamima Begum, who as a child was emotionally manipulated to leave England and join the forces in Syria, her need to return home sparked controversy across the country and she was stripped of her UK citizenship. 

Photo by Nir Segal D

In this new writing by Raptotasios 14 year old British born Esmeh, virtual performance by Hanna Khogali, was groomed online to join IS forces and is now stuck in a refugee camp in Syria with her baby son, and the UK Home Secretary; Creighton, played by the outstanding Phil Cheadle, is committed to denying her return.

Antigone (on strike) tells the story of Antiya, played by the brilliant Hiba Medina; a British Iraqi actor, who is determined to get her sister Esmeh back home on UK soil. Her dedication and pain similar to Sophocles’ Antigone, who illegally mourns her brothers despite the kings wishes. 

The traverse stage holds a large pure white platform, its shape mirroring the décor of the houses of parliament. All audience members are handed a keypad by the actors, who encouraged us to use the number system to take part in their live medium. Sorcha Brooks, who plays Ty, directly tells us it only works when we all take part - ‘we depend on you’ she admits. We, the audience, who are facing one another in this traverse setting, are asked to answer the questions with the option we believe in the most. A few seconds later a pie chart of the data pops up showing the percentage results for each question, some more shocking than others. Some questions are simple, ‘What brings you here today?’, and some ask us to reflect on our inner most values; Can we break the law if it is just to do so? Is a minor responsible? Do we have a right to control our borders? 

The play is peppered with these direct-to-audience questions, bringing us out of the emotional storyline and into thinking mode. From our heads to our hearts and back again, a devise used often in political theatre yet less often as smoothly and as conscientiously as this masterpiece by Raptotasios. 

Photo by Nir Segal D

Hopping between the story of Antiya, desperate to save her sister and baby nephew from the death penalty in Syria, and aTV debate show with us as the live audience, we are forced to listen to both arguments; for and against Esmeh’s return. It is clear we are not here for an escapism story tale, but to remain present, to gather facts and feelings consciously, and perhaps question the opinions we hold.

After a failed appeal to get her sister returned home safely Antiya decides there is no other option then to strike… a hunger strike. Supported by her young, devoted boyfriend Eammon, played by British-Iranian actor Ali Hadji-Heshmati, together they decide to fight against the prejudice against the Muslim community in the UK, and after days of starvation there are 10,000 people marching through London for her cause. 

Hiba Medina and Ali Hadji-Heshmati connection on stage is second to none, they’re performance is continually striking even with the challenge of continually changing parts, special mention to Hadji-Heshmati’s convincing performance. Not to mention, Creadle’s powerful characterisation and Brooks’ highly skilled vocal qualities which fill the theatre, and her character at the end was almost transcendental. This is a very well-cast production by Ellie Collyer-Bristow.

Antiya embarks on a journey of suffering fuelled by love… and to what end? No spoilers here, however, I will say, the twists and turns that lead to the shocking final moments are a testament to the fantastic writing by Raptotasios.

Park Theatre is renowned for its inclusivity, producing works that reflects the world around us, and providing a hub for creatives to share their real-to-life stories, such as Antigone (On Strike). This politically charged piece of theatre is strikingly topical and purposefully challenging, if you can grab a ticket – do.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Antigone (On Strike) runs until Saturday 22nd February 2024. Tickets are available from https://parktheatre.co.uk/event/antigone-on-strike/

Photo by Nir Segal D