One of the great classics of Western theatre, Antigone, is given a new production at the Olivier theatre by one of Britain’s top young directors, Polly Findlay.

Thebes is a city torn by civil war, threatening to implode. Antigone’s brothers stood on opposing sides and both now lie dead. Creon, in a bid to control the city, declares honours on one and shame on the other, denying him the right to a burial. Antigone is outraged and defies Creon’s edict. But when her treachery is discovered Creon condemns her to a slow, dark death.

With Antigone beneath the ground and her brother’s corpse above, the people grow wary. The people daren’t object but the prophet Teiresias warns that this tyranny will anger the gods.

Creon hesitates and his fate is sealed.