NORTHERN Broadsides tackle the hot-headed Greek tale of Antigone at the Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough, next week.

Artistic director Barrie Rutter directs the Halifax company in Blake Morrison's new adaptation of Sophocles's ancient play about the stubborn daughter of Oedipus.

In his third collaboration with Northern Broadsides, Skipton poet Morrison writes a contemporary version of the tragic story of Antigone, who defies self-appointed ruler Creon to bury her brother, the traitorous leader of a failed rebellion. Caught in the act, she is condemned to death and a chain reaction of events is unleashed with profound consequences - and modern resonance in this age of Middle Eastern conflict.

Noted for its unpretentious, vigorous theatre style, the Northern Broadsides cast as ever will use native accents and will accompany the visceral action with rhythmic choral work.

That cast includes Jonathan Le Billon, best known for his television roles as Brian Drake in Hollyoaks and Keiran in At Home With The Braithwaites.

Antigone runs in Scarborough from November 18 to 22. Many performances are close to selling out, so prompt booking is advised on 01723 370541. Tickets: £9.50 to £13.50, concessions available.

Updated: 09:27 Friday, November 14, 2003