This summer, the International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama celebrates its 27th year, offering a rich program of ancient Greek theatre. Four productions are set to grace the stages of the Ancient Odeon in Paphos, the Makarios III Amphitheatre in Nicosia, and the Curium in Limassol. The festival, running from July 19 to August 10, will showcase both local and international theatre companies, each bringing modern interpretations to timeless Greek dramas.
The festival will open with a production from Romania’s Tony Bulandra Theatre, presenting Euripides’ tragedy “Orestes” under the direction of Yiannis Paraskevopoulos. This rendition emphasizes the theme of suspense, portraying the characters’ constant struggle between conflicting situations and decisions. “Orestes” will debut at the Paphos Ancient Odeon on July 19 and will also be performed at the Makarios III Amphitheatre on July 21.
Following this, the National Theatre of Northern Greece (NTNG) will bring Aristophanes’ comedy “Plutus” to the stage. Directed by Giannis Kakleas, this production boasts a stellar cast and creatively explores the human obsession with wealth through Aristophanes’ satirical lens. “Plutus” will be shown at Curium on July 26 and 27.
Acclaimed director and educator Theodoros Terzopoulos collaborates for the first time with the National Theatre of Greece to present Aeschylus’ “Oresteia,” the only surviving trilogy of ancient Greek drama. With a cast of 32 actors, Terzopoulos uses his renowned Method to deliver a profound and intellectually stimulating performance. “Oresteia” will be performed at Curium on August 2 and 3.
For the first time, the festival will also feature a second summer production by the National Theatre of Greece: Euripides’ “The Bacchae,” directed by Thanos Papakonstantinou. This production features an impressive ensemble of 20 actors and three musicians, bringing to life the mystical and ecstatic world of Euripides’ tragedy. “The Bacchae” will conclude the festival with performances at Curium on August 9 and 10.
Festival Highlights:
- Orestes by Euripides, presented by Tony Bulandra Theatre, directed by Yiannis Paraskevopoulos. Performances: July 19 (Paphos Ancient Odeon), July 21 (Makarios III Amphitheatre).
- Plutus by Aristophanes, presented by the National Theatre of Northern Greece, directed by Giannis Kakleas. Performances: July 26 and 27 (Curium).
- Oresteia by Aeschylus, presented by the National Theatre of Greece, directed by Theodoros Terzopoulos. Performances: August 2 and 3 (Curium).
- The Bacchae by Euripides, presented by the National Theatre of Greece, directed by Thanos Papakonstantinou. Performances: August 9 and 10 (Curium).
The festival promises to be a remarkable cultural event, with performances starting at 9 pm. Tickets are priced at €12, and all shows will include Greek and English surtitles. For more information, visit www.greekdramafest.com or call 7000-2414.
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