The Onlus Foundation ,that has promoted the tradition of classical drama at the aretusean Greek Theatre since 1914, staged three great works for the XLVIII cycle of classical drama which is the fruit of the talented writers from Ancient Greece. The three works, “Prometheus” by Aeschylus, “The Bacchae” by Euripides and “The Birds” by Aristophanes alternated from May 11 to June 30.
The work by Aeschylus, probably written in the second half of the fifth century BC, is the story of one of the most famous characters from Greek mythology, Prometheus, who, by
giving fire to men incurs the wrath of Zeus, father of the gods. The clash between the titan and the powerful god takes place in a setting inhabited by mythical creatures and with tragic prophecies, epic battles and demonstrations of indomitable value.
Most likely written between 405 and 403 BC, the tragedy by Euripides vividly describes the Dionysian frenzy that spread around Thebes when the god of ecstasy comes to town in human form to punish those who have doubted his divine nature , by destroying their minds . Young Cadmus opposes him and the tragedy evolves around the fate of this brave inhabitant of Thebes.
“The Birds” by Aristophanes is the story of two Athenians tired of living in their city made oppressive by constant denunciations and lawsuits. The two decide to settle in the world of birds, the only one that is truly free, and manage to be accepted despite initial resistance. However, because of the newcomers, this alternate world begins to resemble the same place from which they fled, with all its consequences. This work by Aristophanes dates from about 414 BC. Along with the start of the summer season , the Greek Theatre of Syracuse once again offers a unique and inimitable event, that transports the spectator into a world more than two thousand years old but one that is still relevant and full of charm in our day and age.
