This season, the Clemson Players stepped into the spotlight with a rendition of the Greek tragedy “Antigone,” drawing audiences in with a timeless performance that showcased an inventive twist to the classic tale.

The Clemson Players took on “Antigone” with fortifying grace. The troupe’s first show was on Sept. 29 in the Bellamy Theatre at the Brooks Center, and it was spectacular — there was not an empty seat to be found.

The Greek tragedy centers around death’s irony and inevitably, inspiring ruminations on the human condition. The play, written by Sophocles around 440 B.C., has ignited many philosophical discussions based on man-made law and moral, divine law.

The Clemson Players’ performance of “Antigone” takes the tale a step further, revealing the realities of inhumane rules and how fear can be utilized as a tool for political gain.

“We were interested in keeping the story setting timeless and therefore relatable while still referencing authoritarian regimes throughout history,” said production manager Jenni Baldwin.

The actors performed their parts so convincingly that I almost forgot I was watching a student production. Immersed in the play, the audience could feel the tension of a post-war state where relief was rare and unstable.

The setting depicted a totalitarian state with the crest of an eagle inspired by the Reichsadler, also known as the imperial eagle of Nazi Germany. The costumes were reminiscent of 1940s and 1950s attire with female characters wearing slacks, blouses, dresses and long, flowing skirts, while men wore suits, sweaters, khakis and button-ups.

The clothing had a color scheme of muted hues ranging from beige, brown, white and light blue. The more noteworthy characters wore darker colors. Antigone, for example, was portrayed in a blood-red dress, while King Creon was depicted with a black suit accompanied by a bright purple silk sash over his shoulder. Creon’s son wore a white button-up shirt and red pants to signify the connection he and Antigone share.

Overall, the scenography felt like a Renaissance painting come to life, where all the characters expressively used the setting to their advantage. Baldwin shared that the design process for the setting took the entire summer to complete — and the hard work paid off.

The beautifully dramatic lighting in the small theater was extravagantly coordinated with the actions of each scene. Each part of the lighting process, woven into the intricate plot — from the flashbacks to the dramatic entrances to the blissful tragedy and the faint form of smoke — immersed the audience in the scenery.

The Clemson Players’ 2025-26 season continues in November with “Ride the Cyclone,” running from Nov. 17-22. A complete schedule can be found on their Instagram, @theclemsonplayers or by visiting the Brooks Center’s website.