AESCHYLUS' "THE PERSIANS"

Aeschylus

A performance of the ancient Greek drama “The Persians” by Aeschylus will be broadcasted to a global audience on Saturday, the 25^th July, from the ancient theatre of Epidaurus.

As part of this year’s Athens and Epidaurus Festival, the National Theatre of Greece with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports will present the play commemorating the 25^th centennial of the sea battle of Salamis.

The event marks the first time that a major Greek drama production will be broadcasted live from Epidaurus.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis

The Greek prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, told the press that the first-ever live-streamed performance from the ancient theatre site is a “pivotal moment as humanity is still challenged by the COVID – 19 pandemic”.  Mr Mitsotakis continued to say that “this performance comes at a critical juncture to stress the universality of principles that lead to the construction of the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 2.300 years ago.”

“The Persians” Aeschylus’ most important anti-war play dramatizes the naval battle of Salamis, one of the most decisive battles in the history of humanity, constantly reminding the timeless values of democracy and freedom.

Lina Mendoni

The Greek Minister of Culture and Sports, Lina Mendoni, talking to the press said that “Our goal this summer is to prevent COVID – 19 from affecting cultural events, and leaving artists without employment and local communities without revenues. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival and the National Theatre of Greece, two major cultural institutions, supervised by the ministry, have adjusted their scheduling to the new reality.”

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus 

The theatre of Epidaurus, the masterpiece of the ancient Greek architect Polycleitus is connected to healing and the holy site is dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine and father of goddess Hygeia who personifies health.  Music and dramatic contests hosted at the theatre were part of the patients’ therapy, during antiquity, while praying to be healed.

“It is, therefore, quite appropriate that in 2020, when the whole planet is being tried by COVID – 19, that Greece symbolically and literally broadcasts an ancient drama performance from the holiest of places, to heal the wounds that were inflicted by the pandemic” said the organisers.  “The play will be streamed live on July 25^th at 21.00 Athens time in partnership with Google Greece.  It will be available worldwide, except in Greece, exclusively through YouTube, free of charge, but donations are welcome”.

The National Theatre of Greece, Athens

All procedures will benefit the National Theatre and the Greek actors who have been infected by the coronavirus pandemic.  Google will host the broadcasting and provide technical support as well as a major free promotion across YouTube regarding this very important event.