In the latest episode of “The Munro Review on CMAC,” we highlight Fresno State’s searing new production of “Antigone,” the classic Greek drama by Sophocles. Fresno State theater professor Michelle Bellaver, making her Fresno directorial debut, offers a charged, contemporary take on the classic. Her vision, which includes the accoutrements of 21st century warfare  feels fresh and alive, like a newly remodeled museum. The blunt, raw power of the ancient Greek text — translated here by poet Anne Carson — is precise and clear to a modern audience. Yet these ancient words, with their focus on the often gaping divide between justice and the law, still feel lofty and wise. As our country’s political system is strained in real time, it isn’t hard to leap from ancient Thebes to the battles raging today over just how far a leader — whether one anointed by the gods or installed by a bare majority — can go in terms of imposing their will on a people.

Shout-outs to Caroline Herling, whose Antigone stirs with duty and rage; Molly Smith, who brings a shrewd levity to the character of the Guard; Jeff Hunter, whose pockmarked wall of a set suggests an archeological dig; and Jorji Brookey, whose sound design and original music instill the proceedings with a woozy ambiance. An extra nod to Josh Taber, who inhabits the soul of Kreon with a spiffy, slicked-down malevolence. (Is this character the No. 1 misogynist in theater history? Could be.) While the final minutes of the show loses some of the production’s earlier clarity, the production is a terse and meaningful experience. Welcome to Fresno State, Professor Bellaver.

You can watch my interview with Bellaver, along with cast member Marazy Ashford (who plays Ismene, Antigone’s sister), sound designer Brookey and fight director Mike Oldham on my show.

Also featured are two other great guests: Ke’Lea Flowers, the creator of the new musical “Dysfunction,” which will receive its premiere at Selma Arts Center on April 10; and Doug Hoagland, our resident Measure P expert, who talks about recent developments regarding the city’s second round of arts grants.

For the Fresno State Collegian’s preview, read here >