An English-language celebration of ancient Greek drama will take place in Athens this summer as “Six Women in Greek Tragedy” arrives at the Athens University History Museum from July 28 to September 10, 2026. Presented in the museum’s historic garden in Plaka, the open-air cultural event combines a theatrical performance with an interactive exhibition dedicated to ancient Greek theatrical masks.
Organized by the cultural organization Sound & Picture in collaboration with director Panos Angelopoulos, the production brings together theatre, history and visual art beneath the Acropolis. The program is designed as an immersive cultural experience for international audiences, offering an English-language exploration of the enduring legacy of ancient Greek drama in one of Athens’ most symbolic settings.
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The theatrical production, “Six Women in Greek Tragedy,” draws on texts by Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides to present six of the most influential female figures in classical drama: Medea, Electra, Antigone, Hecuba, Iphigenia and Alcestis. Through monologues, choral passages and dramatic dialogue, the performance examines themes of justice, sacrifice, grief, resistance and redemption while exploring the role and voice of women in ancient tragedy.
Structured in three parts—Beginning, Middle and End—the production follows the dramatic journey from human hubris to catharsis. A Chorus accompanies the heroines throughout the performance, helping to shape the narrative and deepen its moral and emotional themes. According to the organizers, the women’s sacrifices seek to break the cycle of arrogance and egoism, opening the way to peace, love and hope.
Alongside the performance, visitors can experience the interactive exhibition “Ancient Greek Comedy & Tragedy Mask” by artist Giannis Zymianitis. Featuring handcrafted theatrical masks inspired by ancient Greek tragedy and comedy, the exhibition reflects more than 30 years of the artist’s work and includes examples from a collection of over 1,200 masks. Guided tours are conducted in English and include audience participation.
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The event will be held in the garden of the Athens University History Museum at 5 Tholou Street, Plaka, offering visitors the opportunity to experience theatre and visual art in an open-air setting at the foot of the Acropolis.
