one4review | On 21, Aug 2026

Initially knowing very little about this adaptation, but being familiar with the Sophocles play, the poster for Antigone 1989: A Town Hall Musical intrigued me. A modern retelling I had never encountered, with the added mention of involvement from a creator of Hadestown (Ken Cerniglia, who wrote the book for this musical) caught my attention. Admittedly, I am only familiar with Hadestown by name, but know it to be a highly esteemed production, so that reputation suggested that this production might also promise good things. And that it did deliver.

This version is set in 1989 in Thebes, California, with The Oracle setting the scene for the audience-citizens. Two brothers have died at the Capitol: Nikolas, a gay activist and conservative cop Elias. The backdrop of this story is inspired by the AIDS crisis, with a “plague” affecting select citizens that Nikolas is advocating for — this activism leading to the Governor pointedly refusing to mourn him and hailing his brother as a hero for maintaining order. Their little sister Tigg and friend Henry set out to ensure her brother is remembered.

In terms of the source material, ideas of morality are complex, and arguably Sophocles does not set out to present a simple story of hero versus villain. Some of this complexity can feel somewhat one-dimensional in this retelling. Having said that, adapting such a substantial text into a one-hour show is an incredibly ambitious undertaking, so it seems inevitable that some nuances would become lost in translation. This is through no fault of the performers on stage, who are all unbelievably talented and give the material their absolute commitment.

The cast each command the stage like seasoned professionals, with confidence and talent that suggests experience beyond their years. They bring humanity, energy and successfully inject humour and moments of levity into this emotionally fraught story.

Ultimately, it is a retelling which proves why these ancient stories are so compelling: their themes have remained relevant and resonant throughout history. This musical offers a fresh take to expand the story’s reach to new audiences.

4 stars ****
Reviewed by Niamh
Other Yin at Gilded Balloon Patter House
Until 29th August (excl. 24th)
15:05 – 16:05