PRESS RELEASE: FEBRUARY 11, 2026

Florida School of the Arts presents the Greek Tragedy “Electra”

Andrew McClellan (the Politician) and Emma Decker (The Mastermind - Clytemnestra)

Mara Gonzales (Electra) looks away from her father’s urn.

Florida School of the Arts presents Sophocles’ “Electra” with a modern-day twist. This timeless Greek tragedy focuses on Electra as she stands defiant in the face of betrayal and grief, consumed by the need to avenge her father’s death. Surrounded by nature and myth, this raw and haunting tale explores justice, fate, and the fierce power of a daughter’s devotion.

The show runs February 20-22 at 5:30 p.m.
Admission is free - but reserve your spot and bring your chair!

Location: SJR State Palatka Campus Viking Center courtyard (outdoors). Bring your chair!

Content Disclosure: This production may not be suitable for younger audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.

Under the direction of FloArts acting student Emma Begley, the play will take place during modern day. “Electra is the story of a woman fighting against her oppressive family and their corrupt system, ensuring that a change will come,” Begley said. “With the help of her brother and the chorus, Electra overcomes what her family expects of her and their secrets.”

Begley said her new role as a student director has opened her eyes to many possibilities in the performance industry that are outside of acting, as well as some growing pains.

“I have found love in behind-the-scenes work. So much goes on to make a show happen, and it’s truly commendable seeing people do the hard work that often goes unnoticed,” Begley said. “The biggest thing I’ve learned about myself as an artist during this play is how patience is very important in this industry. Sometimes, things don’t work out the way you want them to or as quickly as you want them too, and that’s okay! Not everything happens overnight, including directing a show.”

FloArts acting instructor and Ryan Mahannah said he chose Emma as director because to fulfill one of her goals since her first semester. “From the first time she talked about the idea, it was clear how much it meant to her. It’s been really special to watch her grow and prepare for this moment,” Mahannah said. “She’s taken on the role with enthusiasm, care, and a real openness to learning. She is leading the rehearsal process, and her voice and vision are very clear in the room. Emma is doing a great job stepping into this role, and her dedication shows every day.”

The cast includes: Mara Gonzales as Electra; Lillian Johnson as Clytemnestra; Winston Sejda as Orestes; Andrew McClellan as Aegisthus; Alexandra Pierre as Chrysothemis; Lyle Lopez as the Old Man; and The Voice of the People (Chorus) are Hailey Barcley King, Emma Decker, Ariana Dice, Zoe Elixson, Kailani Jackson, and Matt Shook.

Florida School of the Arts is undergoing renovations that include an extensive, modern refurbishment through August 2026. Students and faculty have relocated classes off campus at the college’s Workforce Training Center, located on 1001 Husson Avenue in Palatka. Performances will be located at various locations throughout the season. For more information on the renovation, visit https://sjrstate.edu/press2025/25-floarts-season.

Florida School of the Arts is located on the St. Johns River State College Palatka Campus and serves the entire state of Florida. FloArts is part of the academic and administrative structure of SJR State and awards associate degrees in acting, dance performance, musical theater, stage management, theater technology, graphic design/new media and studio art. For more information, call (386) 312-4300 or visit FloArts.

Avenge me. Electra stands in the foreground with a knife. From left Lyle Lopez, Mara Gonzales, Alexandra Pierre, Andrew McClellan and Emma Decker.