Basking in the Glow of Ancient Tragedy: Summer Stages Set for Euripides’ “Bacchae”

During the summer season, particularly in August, the peninsula of Kassandra becomes a hub of culture and live spectacles.

This year, the stage is set for one of the most iconic ancient Greek dramas – Euripides’ “The Bacchae.” Set against the stunning landscapes of Kassandra, this captivating performance delves into the realm of Greek tragedy, exploring themes of divine ecstasy and human hubris. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of ancient Greece, as they witness this theatrical masterpiece under the warm Mediterranean skies. It’s an experience that promises to transport audiences back in time, offering a true taste of Greek culture and history.

One of the triumvirate of ancient Athenian tragedians

Euripides, one of the three great tragedians of classical Athens, forever etched his name in the annals of dramatic literature, shaping the course of theatrical history with his insightful narratives and complex characters. His tragedies, often laden with a potent mix of psychological insight and critical social commentary, resonated with the society of his time and continue to do so even today. 

With his writing style, he managed to sculpt narratives that delve deep into the human psyche, the societal norms of his era, and the complex interplay between the divine and the mortal. His enduring legacy is woven through his masterpieces, and “The Bacchae”, his final and perhaps most renowned work, stands as a testament to his indomitable genius. The tragedy, in all its grandeur, explores themes of divine vengeance and human folly, divine ecstasy, and mortal sanity, a tapestry that still holds relevance in contemporary times.

The plot unfolds a compelling narrative, where Euripides sublimely explores the boundaries of human hubris in confrontation with divine power. In doing so, he examines the delicate balance between reverence and blasphemy, obedience and defiance, and sanity and madness, offering an intriguing commentary on human behavior and societal norms.

Explore a tale of divine vengeance and human folly

Against this backdrop of stirring music, the theatrical team “New Era” presents the tragedy of Euripides’ “The Bacchae”, directed by Elena Mavridou, starring Dimitris Lalos as ‘Dionysus’, and George Christodoulou as ‘Pentheus’. Rendered under the silken veil of the Grecian night, the drama assumes a unique charisma; The essence of Euripides’ timeless masterpiece, resplendent in its ancient glory, resonates hauntingly with the nocturnal chorus of the Grecian flora and fauna. The saga, in its grand enactment, resonates with profound human emotions and cosmic dimensions, thus weaving an arresting narrative tapestry that seamlessly melds the past with the present. By combining the natural sounds of the lyre and the drum with the soundscape and sound design of modern music technology in a stage setting where materials of nature, such as wood, water, and wheat, blend and converse with modern, synthetic materials, the audience gradually immerses into the Bacchic revelry of Euripides’ work.

• Where: Siviri Theater

• Date: August 10th

• Time: 21:00 – 23:00h

Embracing the Essence of Ancient Drama

Summer is the perfect time to savor this ancient drama, not only for its vibrant cultural appeal but also because the setting complements the essence of the play. The open-air amphitheater of Siviri Theater, under the vast canopy of the starlit sky, recreates the ambiance of ancient performances and intensifies the emotional resonance of the play. As the natural light of the day gives way to the tranquil darkness of the night, it accentuates the dramatic effect, immersing the audience in an unforgettable theatrical experience. The historical significance of the play, coupled with the nostalgic environment, serves to transport you back to the birthplace of theater, enabling you to experience the spectacle in its original form.

Indulging in this cultural haven during your stay at Domes Noruz Kassandra not only ensures a memorable vacation but also presents an opportunity for personal enrichment. As more cultural events converse under the August skies, you will find yourself transported to a world of artistic wonder and profound emotions, leaving you with cherished memories to carry back home. Immerse yourself in this cultural odyssey, and transform each moment into an intricately crafted memory with the deft touch of luxury