In a fusion of ancient tradition and modern innovation, Ghent is set to host the groundbreaking "All Greeks" festival from 1 May to 23 June.
The event aims to immerse spectators in the rich tapestry of Greek tragedy by offering an array of performances and installations across the city's urban landscape.
Conceived by resident artist for NTGent theatre Milo Rau, the festival aims to recreate the spirit of ancient Athens by showcasing adaptations of all 32 surviving Greek tragedies. From intimate passages to grand performances directed by acclaimed artists like Rau, Tiago Rodrigues, and Kris Verdonck, the festival will cover the highs and lows of Greek drama.
Rau told Het Nieuwsblad that the idea came in Paris a few years ago: "A group of actors performed Shakespeare between the trees. For the first time in my life I understood every word. Throughout the day, that experience echoed through my mind: the simple beauty of performing a classic for those who happened to be there."
What sets "All Greeks" apart is its accessibility and inclusivity. All performances are free and take place in public spaces, echoing the communal nature of ancient Greek theatre. Spectators are encouraged to come and go as they please, with many events scheduled at sunrise to evoke the dawn rituals of classical Athens.
The city is a hotspot for theatrics, with the annual Gentse Feesten filling the streets with cultural shows. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The festival's curator Matthias Velle told Het Nieuwsblad that it will serve as a platform for marginalised voices within the community. Through collaborations with local residents, social organisations, and artists, "All Greeks" aims to amplify voices often overlooked in mainstream discourse.
All sides of the city, just as the Greeks would have wanted it
The festival will launch at De Krook, Ghent's central library, symbolising a journey of enlightenment and empowerment. A grand parade will lead spectators to Sint-Baafsplein, where the ceremonial lighting of the festival flame will take place, paying homage to Prometheus's defiance and the gift of fire to humanity. As the flame travels through various neighbourhoods, it serves as a beacon of unity and reflection, culminating in a closing ceremony at Blaarmeersen.
Blaarmeersen, an area on the outskirts of the city, will be a poignant backdrop for the festival's denouement as it is a site known for social tensions. By confronting the complexities of contemporary urban life through the lens of Greek tragedy, "All Greeks" seeks to foster dialogue and reconciliation within the community.
“There is tension between the incidents with young people and the repressive response of city authorities. In Greek tragedies, tensions are magnified and contradictions are shown. We need to reflect on the tragedy of the Blaarmeersen and develop an imagination that brings us back to a balance," Velle explained.
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For those unfamiliar with ancient Greece, the festival offers accessible interpretations of classic tales through parades, parties, and performances. Beyond entertainment, "All Greeks" aspires to leave a lasting social impact, weaving the threads of community resilience and solidarity into the fabric of Ghent's cultural landscape.
As Ghent transforms into a modern-day Athens, "All Greeks" invites spectators to embark on a journey of discovery, reflection, and collective catharsis. In a world often marred by division and discord, this celebration of unity and diversity serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
For more information about the programme see here.
