When and Where
Dates: 1 June 2024 to 24 August 2024
Venues: Various locations around Athens & Epidaurus
Why Attend to Athens Epidaurus Festival ?
The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is the ultimate celebration of music, theatre, and dance, making it a cornerstone of the Greek summer. Spanning over sixty years, this annual arts festival has grown to include a rich array of performances across multiple disciplines, set against the stunning backdrops of Athens and Epidaurus.
A Historic Legacy
Founded in 1955, the Athens and Epidaurus Festival has become one of the most prestigious cultural events in Greece. Known officially as the Hellenic Festival S.A. since 1998, it operates with a mission to enrich both the cultural and tourism sectors of Greece. Governed by a seven-member board of directors, the festival is funded through a mix of state grants, casino profits, sponsorships, ticket sales, and venue rentals.
Iconic Venues
Performances are held in several historic locations, including:
- Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Nestled beneath the Acropolis, this ancient theatre is renowned for its acoustics and stunning setting.
- Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus: Famous for its perfect acoustics and historical significance, it was here that the works of Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus were first performed.
2024 Festival Highlights
Music
The 2024 festival promises an exhilarating lineup of musical performances. Highlights include:
- STING: The legendary musician will return for two unforgettable nights on July 5 and 6 at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
- Greek National Opera: Expect stellar productions such as Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca and Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata.
Theatre
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus will host eight productions, each performed twice a week from early July to late August. These will feature works by ancient Greek playwrights Euripides, Aeschylus, and Aristophanes. Notably, international theatre director Timofey Kulyabin will make his debut at Epidaurus, offering a contemporary take on Euripides’ Iphigenia.
Dance and Visual Arts
Beyond music and theatre, the festival also showcases exceptional dance and visual arts performances. These events often take place in various innovative venues around Athens, such as the former Tsaougoglou factory at Peiraios 260, which was transformed into performance spaces in 2006, and additional stages added in subsequent years.
A Broader Impact
The festival employs a diverse team to manage its expansive program, with staffing levels fluctuating from 30 to 300 depending on the season. This includes technical staff, ushers, cleaners, guards, and cashiers, all working together to ensure a seamless experience for attendees. The festival’s contributions to the arts are significant, supporting not just cultural enrichment but also boosting local tourism.
Tickets and More Information
Tickets for the Athens and Epidaurus Festival can be purchased online. Given the festival’s popularity and the historic venues’ limited seating, it’s advisable to book early.
For tickets and more detailed information about the festival venues, visit the official Athens and Epidaurus Festival website.
Conclusion
The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is more than an event; it is an experience that immerses you in the rich cultural heritage of Greece. Whether you are a lover of classical music, theatre, or dance, this festival offers a unique blend of performances that celebrate the artistic spirit of ancient and modern Greece. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary cultural journey from June to August 2024.
