Exploring Ancient Greece: Plato’s Theater Team’s Journey 2023

October 17, 2023

Exploring Greece: A Theatrical Journey with Plato's Ancient Greek Theater Team

The research trip to Greece is part of the “Plato’s Ancient Greek Theater” program. The program consists of an introduction to the history of drama & heater and our research trip to various sights of Greece including Epidavros Theater, and the first theater in history (The theater of Dionysios at the foothill of the Acropolis). The program culminates with the study of a specific tragedy and its performance.

Plato’s Ancient Greek Theater team embarked on an extraordinary expedition this year, diving deep into the heart of Greece’s historical and cultural treasures. With a mission to unravel the rich tapestry of ancient Greek theater, they traversed through iconic sites, each steeped in millennia of history.

Panathenaic Stadium: Embracing Centuries of Athletic Glory

Their odyssey began at the Panathinaiko Stadium, a timeless marvel that witnessed the echoes of ancient athletes. Crafted entirely from white Penteli marble, this 2,352-year-old stadium stands as the only arena in the world where three Olympic Games have unfurled. The team marveled at the enduring spirit of competition that has graced its ancient grounds.

Arachova: Where Mythology Meets Traditional Architecture

Perched at an elevation of 980 meters on Mount Parnassus, Arachova welcomed the team with its enchanting traditional architecture. Nestled just 8 km from the legendary site of Delphi, this quaint town beckoned with its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and charming squares. Here, mythology breathed life into the very air they breathed.

Delphi: The Center of the World

Delphi, hailed as the center of the world, stirred their imaginations. Legend has it that Apollo first graced this land in the form of a dolphin, giving birth to its name. This ancient city in Phocis, near the Gulf of Corinth, held the sacred seat of Pythia, the high priestess of Apollo. Delphi’s significance resonated through its guidance and predictions bestowed upon ancient seekers.

Isthmus of Corinth: A Neck Connecting Worlds

At the Isthmus of Corinth, the team stood on the narrow land bridge uniting the Peloponnese peninsula with the Greek mainland. This geographical marvel, aptly named “isthmus” in reference to its narrow neck, illustrated nature’s intricate design.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus & the Acoustic Marvel and Healing Sanctuary

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a testament to ancient Greek ingenuity, captivated the team. Nestled near the sanctuary of Asclepius, the God of medicine, this theater stands as a paragon of acoustic perfection and aesthetic brilliance. Its architectural grandeur earned it a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.

The team delved deeper into Epidaurus, exploring the Archaeological Museum and the Sanctuary of Asklepios. In the museum, relics from the Archaic era to Roman times whispered tales of ancient rituals and healing practices. The Asklepios sanctuary, functioning both as a healing center and a religious hub, spoke of faith and the eternal human pursuit of health and well-being.

Mycenae: The Echoes of Agamemnon's Age

In the shadows of Mycenae, the Lion Gate, a formidable entrance to the Bronze Age citadel, greeted them. Nearby, the awe-inspiring Tomb of Agamemnon, with its massive monolithic lintel and intricate design, stood as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Mycenaean civilization.

Acropolis Museum: Preserving Timeless Beauty

In the heart of Athens, the Acropolis Museum safeguarded the grace of ancient Greece. Among its treasures stood the Korai, exquisite maidens of stone whose beauty transcends ages. These sculptures, known as Karyatides, are synonymous with grace and resilience, embodying the spirit of the ancient city of Karyai.

Theatre of Dionysus: Where Drama Found Its Voice

Inspired by the past, the team visited the Theatre of Dionysus, the oldest known theater in Athens. Built to honor Dionysus, the god of festivals and theatre, this historic venue hosted the grand City Dionysia. Here, the resonance of ancient performances lingered in the air, a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling.

A Joyful Cultural Exchange: Platonakia in Papagou

Amidst their historical explorations, the team found warmth in the hearts of the students in Papagou. Invited as honored guests to a local junior high school, they exchanged laughter, dance, and the promise of enduring friendships. The Mayor’s office bestowed tokens of appreciation, cementing the bond between cultures.

Syntagma Square: Witnessing Tradition Unfold

On their final day, the team visited Syntagma Square, witnessing the mesmerizing Changing of the Guards ceremony. Here, amidst the grandeur of modern Athens, they reflected on the timeless traditions that have shaped Greek heritage.

Theater Workshop with Evangelos Halkiadakis (Ευάγγελος Χαλκιαδάκης): Embracing Theatrical Artistry

Guided by the expertise of theater actor Ευάγγελος Χαλκιαδάκης, the team delved deep into the art of theater. Their minds and hearts absorbed the nuances of performance, a fitting tribute to the ancient theaters that had inspired their journey.

In the tapestry of their travels, Plato’s Ancient Greek Theater team discovered not just the history of ancient Greece but also the warmth of its people and the enduring spirit of theater. Their expedition became a testament to the unbreakable thread that connects the past, present, and future, echoing the words of Plato across the ages.

A Night in Athens: Celebrating Greek Culture

Their journey culminated in a night of enchantment in Athens. Amidst the soul-stirring tunes of Rebetika, they savored Greek cuisine and reveled in the camaraderie of newfound friendships. Mr. Petros, their guide and mentor, orchestrated this final celebration, crafting a memory that would forever dwell in their hearts.