Drake University Theatre Department continues its 2026–2027 season with Sophocles’ timeless tragedy Antigone, directed by Michael Rothmayer, Drake University associate professor of theatre arts. Following the season-opening staged reading of Symptoms of Being Alive, Antigone runs Oct. 1–4 in the Coleman Studio Theatre at Drake University.

Written in 441 BCE, Antigone delivers a thrilling exploration of morality, power, and civil disobedience. The plot centers on the fiery conflict between Antigone, who risks everything to give her disgraced brother a proper burial, and King Creon, who enforces his tyrannical laws with an iron fist—only to face devastating consequences.

Rothmayer’s production takes a sleek, modern approach to the classic text, anchored by the central theme: “What doesn’t bend, breaks.” By framing the story through a contemporary lens, the production highlights enduring themes of female empowerment, civic duty, and the human cost of unyielding authority.

Performance Schedule

  • Thursday, Oct. 1: 7:30 p.m.
  • Friday, Oct. 2: 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, Oct. 3: 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, Oct. 4: 2 p.m.

Location: Coleman Studio Theatre located inside the Harmon Fine Arts Center on Drake University’s campus

Ticket & Box Office Information

Tickets are on sale now. To purchase tickets online, visit tix.com/ticket-sales/drakefinearts or call the Drake Fine Arts Box Office at 515–271–3841.

To explore the full Fall 2026 lineup—including the upcoming musical Urinetown (November 19–22)—visit drake.edu/fineartsboxoffice.