Oresteia, Aeschylus – Yannis Houvardas

Can violence be combated, perhaps even eradicated altogether? But how? Is it an acquired characteristic or innate? Where does violence within the family stem from and how does it relate to societal violence? Can there be historical evolution without violence?

A ‘closed circuit’ of historical figures with all-powerful but dark familial bonds experience the break-down of a primitive state which is built on violence and does not guarantee justice. They make the transition to a state which is built on peace and democracy and governed by the rule of law, but there is no guarantee the new status quo will provide the internal balance, freedom and personal happiness everyone desires. A tightly-knit group of 12 select actors divide all the roles in Aeschylus’ trilogy between them, including the chorus. With minimal sets and props, but with every dynamic that can underlie personal, family, political and social life, the bloody cycle of a family is retold as the historic cycle of a nation which must sacrifice its children if it is to be born anew. But rebirth will not necessarily bring salvation with it—not if it based in socio-political visions without the transformative blessing of family love.

With English Surtitles