Shadow theatre artist Elias Karellas returns to the Garden of the Megaron Athens Concert Hall for a fifth consecutive year with a new production inspired by Greek mythology. The Labours of Heracles will be presented in six performances from June 16 to July 1, transforming the legendary hero’s adventures into a large-scale outdoor spectacle for audiences of all ages.
The production combines shadow theatre, live music and theatrical storytelling, bringing Heracles and his Twelve Labours to life through giant shadow puppets, mythical creatures and comic interventions from the beloved Greek folk character Karagiozis.
At the centre of the story is an oversized shadow-theatre figure of Heracles, who embarks on a series of challenges ranging from encounters with the Lernaean Hydra to confrontations with Cerberus. Alongside him is Karagiozis, whose witty remarks and unexpected interventions continually disrupt the action, turning each trial into an unpredictable and humorous adventure.
Music plays a central role in the performance. In Karellas’ adaptation, King Eurystheus conceives each labour as a demanding musical score performed by his imposing band. Karagiozis responds with his own popular orchestra, introducing traditional instruments and folk rhythms that rewrite the course of events and reshape the hero’s journey with humour and imagination.
The production expands the traditional language of shadow theatre through large-scale visual elements, giant figures, live musicians and the presence of an actor on stage. Together, these components create a contemporary performance that bridges Greek cultural heritage with modern theatrical expression.
Karellas serves as shadow theatre performer, adaptor and director of the production. Actor Fanis Pavlopoulos appears as King Eurystheus, while the musical ensemble features the brass band Hasta Brassta and a traditional orchestra performing live throughout the show.
Presented as a co-production between the Athens Concert Hall and the Elias Karellas Theatre Company, The Labours of Heracles is designed for all audiences, offering an accessible introduction to Greek mythology through music, comedy and visual storytelling.
The performances take place in the Garden of the Megaron Athens Concert Hall from June 16 through July 1.
