The Diazoma association, in collaboration with the National Theater and the Culture Ministry, has launched a new program to introduce the public to lesser-known ancient theaters in Greece through performances of Aristophanes' comedy. The program, funded with a 100,000-euro grant, will run from July to September.
At a press conference held at the National Archaeological Museum on Wednesday, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, National Theater Art Director Yiannis Moschos, and Diazoma President Stavros Benos presented the general schedule. The Central Archaeological Council (KAS) approved 17 venues for performances of Aristophanes' "Plutus," provided there are no fees or tickets except for admission to archaeological sites.
The selected venues include 15 ancient theatres, one Ecclesiasterion (Odeion) in Messene, and one ancient site (Eleusis). The theatres are:
- Ancient Theater of Kabeirion (Thebes)
- Dimitrias (Volos)
- Maroneia (Evros)
- Mieza (Naoussa)
- Gitana (Filiates)
- Cassope (Preveza)
- Amvracia (Arta)
- Pleurona (Missolonghi)
- Aigeira
- Gythio
- Arcadian Orchomenos
- Eretria (Evia)
- Orchomenos (Boeotia)
- Zea (Piraeus)
- Thoricus (Lavrion)
Minister Mendoni emphasised the importance of incorporating cultural heritage into citizens' daily lives and highlighted the policy of opening archaeological sites to modern artistic actions since 2019. She stated that cultural heritage serves as a source of energy for modern creativity.
National Theater's Yiannis Moschos expressed excitement about performing in new locations and engaging local communities. The troupe performing Aristophanes' comedy will consist of younger National Theater artists, offering them an opportunity to explore ancient drama.
Diazoma founder and former culture minister Stavros Benos praised the program as a "triumph of synergies," noting Diazoma's efforts to highlight and study 50 ancient theatres for preservation and funding.
Free passes for the performances will be available two hours before each show, except at sites requiring paid entrance.
Details will be published online at the National Theater's site.
Read more: Ancient Greek Theatre
(Source: Amna)
