A zany style of queer theatre arrives in Melbourne this week with the premiere of AntigoneX at St Kilda’s Theatre Works as part of the 2018 Midsumma calendar.

Adapted from Sophocles’ tragedy, Antigone, AntigoneX was written specifically for a Melbourne audience. This modern twist on a classic has taken inspiration from gender norms, performance art, and Australian politics.

“Every tragedy needs beach balls,” said writer and co-director Zachary Dunbar.

“We’re exploring what a ‘queer’ tragedy might be. Like how do you honour a tragedy’s powerful message, maintain some of its forms, including the chorus, and still make it funny and relevant? It’s perfect for the Midsumma audience.”

From beach balls to budgy smugglers, cabaret to chaos, the play has been described as simultaneously absurd and moving.

Where: Theatre Works (14 Acland Street, St Kilda, VIC)
When: Wednesday 31 January – Sunday 4 February (the performance on 1 February is an Auslan-interpreted performance)

Tickets are available through midsumma.org.au