Epidaurus Festival 2025: Program Highlights & Travel Tips
The Epidaurus Festival 2025 program has been officially announced, and it’s shaping up to be an extraordinary celebration of ancient Greek drama, music, and culture. Held at the iconic Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, this year’s festival promises a mix of timeless classics and modern interpretations. Below, we’ve outlined the full program, including dates, times, and descriptions of each performance, along with practical tips to help you plan your visit.
Epidaurus Festival 2025 Program by Dates
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 2025 program, including dates, times, and a short description of each performance:
June 2025
- June 27, 28 & 29, 9:00 PM: Antigone by Sophocles
- Performed by: Athens Epidaurus Festival – National Theatre – Ulrich Rasche
- Description: Ulrich Rasche, renowned for his groundbreaking 2022 production of Agamemnon, returns to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus with a bold new interpretation of Sophocles’ Antigone. This co-production with the National Theatre of Greece features a stellar cast of Greek actors and Rasche’s signature stagecraft, including a dynamic revolving stage. Using N. Panagiotopoulos’ acclaimed translation, the performance brings to life the timeless story of defiance and morality, promising to leave a profound artistic imprint on the 2025 festival. Don’t miss this unforgettable opening to the Epidaurus Festival’s anniversary year.
July 2025
- July 4 & 5, 9:00 PM: Electra by Sophocles
- Performed by: Poreia Theatre – Dimitri Tarlow
- Description: Dimitris Tarlow, Artistic Director of Poreia Theatre, makes his Epidaurus debut with Sophocles’ Electra. In a world grappling with totalitarianism and moral ambiguity, this timeless tragedy explores the cost of justice, the cycle of violence, and the human struggle for redemption. Electra, a figure of defiance and grief, embodies the tension between vengeance and morality. Tarlow’s production delves into these profound themes, offering a haunting reflection on resistance, power, and the enduring weight of choice. A must-see for lovers of ancient drama and contemporary relevance.
- July 11 & 12, 9:00 PM: ζ – η – θ The Stranger
- Performed by: National Theatre of Northern Greece – Cyprus Theatre Organisation – Michail Marmarinos
- Description: Michail Marmarinos returns to Epidaurus with a captivating exploration of three rhapsodies from Homer’s Odyssey. This performance delves into the timeless power of oral storytelling, blending ancient epic with contemporary theatre. Through evocative excerpts and Marmarinos’ masterful direction, The Stranger invites audiences to rediscover the magic of Homer’s world, where history and myth intertwine. A mesmerizing journey for lovers of ancient literature and innovative theatre.
- July 19, 9:00 PM: Utopia – Teodor Currentzis
- Featuring: Regula Mühlemann (soprano) and Eve-Maud Hubeaux (mezzo-soprano)
- Program: Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 and Songs on the Death of Children (Kindertotenlieder)
- Description: Teodor Currentzis, the visionary conductor, brings his orchestra Utopia to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus for a night of Mahler’s masterpieces. Swiss soprano Regula Mühlemann will perform the radiant fourth movement of Symphony No. 4, while mezzo-soprano Eve-Maud Hubeaux delivers the haunting Kindertotenlieder. A profound exploration of existential and emotional depths, this concert promises to be an unforgettable musical experience.
- July 25 & 26, 9:00 PM: Oedipus Tyrannus at Colonus
- Performed by: Athens Epidaurus Festival – Lykofos – Yannis Houvardas
- Description: Celebrating 50 years of theatrical excellence, Yannis Houvardas adapts and directs Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex and Oedipus at Colonus into a unified masterpiece. With live music and a stellar cast, the production traces Oedipus’ tragic journey in reverse—from his exile in Colonus to the origins of his fate. Houvardas’ visionary approach honors Sophocles’ legacy while crafting a seamless, emotionally charged narrative. A profound exploration of destiny, redemption, and divine intervention.
August 2025
- August 1 & 2, 9:00 PM: Europa’s Pledge (World Premiere – Co-Production)
- Performed by: Athens Epidaurus Festival – Théâtre national de la Colline – Wajdi Mouawad
- Description: Mouawad, known for his powerful and politically charged work, draws inspiration from ancient Greek heroines, exploring universal themes of family, identity, and the human condition. Expect a multilingual performance by a diverse, international cast in the breathtaking setting of the ancient theatre of Epidaurus.
- August 8 & 9, 9:00 PM: Andromache by Euripides
- Performed by: Maria Protopappa
- Description: Euripides’ Andromache exposes the aftermath of war and the collapse of heroic ideals. Set in the decaying household of Neoptolemus, Achilles’ son, the play reveals the cost of arrogance and complacency. Through a grotesque Chorus and haunting narrative, it critiques Greek cultural superiority and the generational toll of destruction. A powerful exploration of guilt, retribution, and the fragility of human values.
- August 22 & 23, 9:00 PM: Oresteia by Aeschylus
- Performed by: National Theatre – Theodoros Terzopoulos
- Description: Theodoros Terzopoulos brings Aeschylus’ monumental trilogy to life in a landmark production that blends intellectual depth and raw energy. Following its acclaimed international tour, this performance returns to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, offering a profound exploration of justice, vengeance, and humanity’s eternal struggles. A fitting finale to the 2025 festival, this is a must-see for lovers of ancient drama and modern theatrical innovation.
Special Events and Activities
- June 27 – August 23: Antigone. Law and Disobedience
- Description: A temporary exhibition exploring the themes of Sophocles’ Antigone through art and historical artifacts.
- June 27 – August 23: Little Trackers
- Description: A children’s creative workshop in Epidaurus, designed for kids aged 5-10. While parents enjoy the performances, children engage with ancient myths through theatre, music, and movement.
- Schedule: Fridays and Saturdays during the performances at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.
How to Stay Updated:
- Official Website: The primary source of information is the official website of the Athens Epidaurus Festival: https://aefestival.gr/.
- Follow Us on Facebook: Don’t miss out on the latest festival news, special announcements, and exclusive content! Stay updated by following our official Facebook page.
- News Outlets: Greek cultural news websites and publications will also provide coverage of the festival
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Timing:
- The festival runs from June 27 to August 23, 2025. Check the program for specific dates and performances.
- Tickets:
- Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or authorized ticket vendors.
- Book early: Popular performances sell out quickly, especially for weekend shows.
- Accommodation and Travel:
- Plan your stay well in advance, as hotels and guesthouses in the area fill up fast during the festival season.
- Consider staying in Nafplio, a charming nearby town, if accommodations in Epidaurus are limited.
Getting to Epidaurus from Athens: Your Transportation Options
Planning to attend the Epidaurus Festival and need to figure out how to get there from Athens? You have several options, each with its own advantages and considerations:
1. By Car:
- Pros: This offers the most flexibility and allows you to explore the surrounding region at your own pace. The drive is scenic, taking you along the coast of the Saronic Gulf.
- Cons: You’ll need to navigate unfamiliar roads and find parking at Epidaurus, which can be challenging during peak season.
- The Route: The journey is straightforward. Take the motorway towards Corinth, and after crossing the Corinth Canal, take the exit for Epidaurus. Follow the signs for “Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.” The drive takes approximately 2 to 2,5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Tips: Consider renting a car with GPS navigation to make the journey easier. Be aware of tolls on the motorway.
2. Organized Tours:
- Pros: This is a convenient option that takes care of transportation and often includes visits to other nearby archaeological sites like Mycenae.
- Cons: You’ll have less flexibility in terms of your itinerary and may spend less time at Epidaurus itself.
- What to Expect: Many tour operators in Athens offer day trips to Epidaurus. These tours typically include transportation by bus, a guided tour of the site, and sometimes lunch.
- Tips: Book your tour in advance, especially during the festival season.
3. By Taxi or Minivan:
- Pros: This is the fastest option, offering door-to-door service.
- Cons: This is the most expensive option.
- What to Expect: You can hire a taxi from Athens to Epidaurus, but be prepared for a significant fare.
Important Notes:
- During the Epidaurus Festival, there may be special bus services from Athens directly to the theatre. Check the festival website or KTEL bus schedules for any special arrangements.
- No matter which option you choose, it’s advisable to plan your transportation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the festival season.
Why Attend the Epidaurus Festival 2025?
The Epidaurus Festival is more than just a series of performances—it’s a journey into the heart of ancient Greek culture. The breathtaking setting of the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, with its unparalleled acoustics and historic significance, makes every performance a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re a fan of ancient drama, classical music, or contemporary dance, the 2025 program has something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
With the program now available, it’s time to start planning your visit to the Epidaurus Festival 2025. From booking tickets to arranging transportation, early preparation will ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness world-class performances in one of the most iconic venues in the world.
For the full program and ticket information, visit the official website: Epidaurus Festival 2025 Program.
