After the two very successful theater seasons in Athens and tours throughout Greece, this time the show “Agoramana” comes to Patras.
What will we see on stage? A new mother finds that raising children under conditions of social pressure and incessant “well-intentioned” instructions ends up being an arduous, intensive and lonely job. Is she the only one who feels this way? Is she a bad mother? Why does a woman to be “complete” have to have children? How true is the narrative of family happiness you serve to young people? And what’s up with the men anyway?
Through a very personal style, which combines stand-up comedy, documentary and musical theatre, “Agoramana” explores, chronicles and deconstructs the experiences of parenthood, gradually sheds light on gender roles and boldly unravels the thread of violence against of women*. With its subversive subject matter, the show challenges viewers of all genders and ages to reexamine the systematic impact of social stereotypes and power structures on all of our lives.
Each show hosts a different guest, who integrates into the stage action and contributes with a unique perspective on the themes of the show.
“This load of logistics that mom has on her head is huge! To take a break from what I live, I go to the greengrocer, my friend…”
“Anyway, I’m not having a child with a man again.”
*During the show there are clear references and descriptions around the issue of obstetric violence. If you are a victim of obstetric violence, do not hesitate to seek help and support from certified professionals and agencies.
Show ID:
Text: Aphrodite Mitsopoulou
Directed by: Iakovos Molymbakis, Aphrodite Mitsopoulou
Scenography: Maria Karathanou
Lighting: Apostolis Koutsianikoulis
Original music: Kostas Mitsopoulos
Assistant director: Maria Haritopoulou
Production assistant: Savvas Kovlakas
Photos: Domniki Mitropoulou
Interpretation: Aphrodite Mitsopoulou, Iakovos Molymbakis
Production: Scratch Theater Company
info
Duration: 70′
Friday 15 November on 21:30,
Saturday 16 November on 21:30
and Sunday 17 November on 20:00
Tickets: 14€ Normal | 10€ Reduced
Act Theatre, Gerokostopoulou stairs, information: 2610272037
Get your tickets online here
To buy tickets by phone: 2107234567 Monday – Friday, 9:00-17:00
#Agoramana #stops #act #theater #November
How does the inclusion of different guest speakers contribute to the narrative and audience engagement in “Agoramana”?
**Interview with Aphrodite Mitsopoulou, Creator and Co-Director of “Agoramana”**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Aphrodite! “Agoramana” has made quite an impact during its tours in Athens and across Greece. What inspired you to bring this show to Patras?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Thank you for having me! The response we received in Athens was overwhelmingly positive, and we felt it was crucial to share these important themes with more audiences. Patras has a vibrant artistic community, and we’re excited to engage with them. We want people to reflect on the pressures of motherhood and gender roles, which are universally relatable.
**Editor:** The storyline touches on some complex issues, such as societal expectations of motherhood. What can the audience expect from the show?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** The audience can expect a rich blend of stand-up comedy, documentary elements, and musical theatre. We explore the challenges new mothers face while questioning societal narratives of “family happiness.” It’s a journey that balances humor with serious themes, encouraging reflection and discussion about gender roles and the reality of motherhood.
**Editor:** You mentioned challenging societal stereotypes. Can you elaborate on how “Agoramana” addresses these themes?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Absolutely. The show strips away the façade of perfection often associated with parenting. We ask provocative questions like, “Is she a bad mother?” and “Why must a woman be ‘complete’ by having children?” The narrative also highlights issues such as obstetric violence, emphasizing the need for awareness and support. Our aim is to open a dialogue about these experiences and their impact on women’s lives.
**Editor:** Each performance features a different guest who adds their perspective. How does this collaboration enhance the show?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Bringing in a guest offers fresh insights and allows for a dynamic interplay of ideas. Each guest contributes their unique experiences with parenthood, further enriching the narrative and ensuring that our themes resonate with a broad audience. It’s a communal experience that encourages open discussion.
**Editor:** What do you hope audiences take away from “Agoramana”?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** I hope the show encourages empathy and understanding. I want audiences to question societal norms and feel empowered to voice their experiences. It’s about creating a safe space for conversation around motherhood, gender roles, and the pressures that come with them.
**Editor:** Thank you, Aphrodite. We’re looking forward to the show in Patras!
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Thank you! I can’t wait to see everyone there and to share this important dialogue with the community.
