Vassar Student Discusses 'Antigone' with Fall Play Cast

When Millbrook’s performing arts students and faculty take on a play, they go all-in. As opening night for the 2025 fall play, Antigone, rapidly approaches, Theater Director Elaine Lifter brought in Vassar College student Natalie Buzzell, who is writing her senior thesis on Antigone, to discuss the play with student actors in the Chelsea Morrison Theater.

With the in-progress set of Millbrook’s Antigone providing an apropos backdrop, students began by introducing themselves, their role in the upcoming play, and what has impacted them the most as they prepare to put on the show. Buzzell then explained her connection to Antigone through her thesis, which connects the performance and content of the play to various resistance movements around the world throughout history.

Through the discussion, the cast of Antigone received useful contextual information about the ancient play and how people at different times in history have connected with the story and helped it stand the test of time. Additionally, the special class gave students a preview of the type of work they’ll be doing soon, when they graduate from Millbrook and start their own higher-education journeys.

This comprehensive study of the plays we perform is an invaluable part of the Millbrook experience. Thanks to our faculty’s deep network of connections to the art scene—both locally and in nearby New York City—our arts classes are regularly treated to visits from experts and professionals who provide insights that inspire and guide students to achieve their dreams.

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