Exclusive Interview: Shelby Seeley, Joe Wright, & Amanda Buchalter of Theatre Nova's 'Athena'

What happens when your biggest competition is also the person who knows you best? In Athena, Gracie Gardner turns the fast-paced world of competitive fencing into something much bigger than a sport. Every lunge, parry, and point becomes part of a battle over friendship, identity, ambition, and the pressure to be the best. At first glance, the play seems to revolve around two talented teenage fencers chasing victory, but beneath the masks and blades lies a story about growing up, navigating complicated relationships, and discovering who you are when winning is no longer enough. Filled with sharp humor, quick dialogue, and moments of surprising vulnerability, Athena keeps audiences engaged from the opening scene to the final bout. It challenges viewers to consider how competition can both strengthen and damage relationships, making it as emotionally compelling as it is entertaining. That is why it needs a strong cast and crew to bring it to life, including director Shelby Seeley, fight director Joe Wright, and cast member Amanda Buchalter! In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Seeley, Wright, and Buchalter discuss what it's like to step into the world of Athena and bring it to Theatre Nova's stage! What is it about this story that spoke to each one of them? How has Athena challenged them in their respective roles? And why is this show unlike anything else they've ever worked on? Check out this interview to find out those answers and more! Find the video of this podcast on YouTube For more entertainment coverage, visit BSB Insider Follow us on social media @bsb.insider or check out our Linktree!