Christopher Eccleston cast in Antigone at National Theatre

Christopher Eccleston has been cast as 'Creon' in Antigone by Sophocles, in a version by Don Taylor, directed by Polly Findlay, which opens at the Olivier, National Theatre, 30 May 2012, following previews from 23 May - initially booking to 20 June 2012. (The play will be announcing further dates).

Eccleston will join previously mentioned Jodie Whittaker (Antigone). Further casting to be announced

Christopher Eccleston's London theatre credits include A Doll's House (Donmar Warehouse), Miss Julie (Theatre Royal, Haymarket), Waiting at the Water's Edge (Bush), Aide-Memoire (Royal Court) and Bent and Abingdon Square (National Theatre). His many films include G.I. Joe, The Dark is Rising, 28 Days Later, Elizabeth, Jude, Shallow Grave and Let Him Have It; his extensive television work includes The Doctor in Dr Who. The Fuse, The Borrowers, The Shadow Line, Accused , Lennon, Perfect Parents, The League of Gentlemen, The Second Coming, Flesh & Blood , Othello, Hillsborough, Our Friends in the North and Cracker.

Desperate to gain control over a city ravaged by civil war, Creon refuses to bury the body of Antigone's rebellious brother. Outraged, she defies his edict. Creon condemns the young woman, his niece, to be buried alive. The people daren't object but the prophet Teiresias warns that this tyranny will anger the gods: the rotting corpse is polluting the city. Creon hesitates and his fate is sealed.