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 do the unique elements of stand-up comedy and musical theatre contribute to the show’s exploration of societal pressures on women?
**Interview with Aphrodite Mitsopoulou, Creator and Director of “Agoramana”**
**Editor:** Aphrodite, welcome! “Agoramana” has had tremendous success in Athens and throughout Greece. What inspired you to bring this show to Patras?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Thank you! We’re thrilled to be in Patras. The inspiration came from conversations with mothers, friends, and even strangers who shared their experiences. Many feel this societal pressure and struggle with the expectations of motherhood. We wanted to provide a platform to explore these feelings and challenge the narrative society imposes on women, especially regarding parenthood.
**Editor:** The show combines elements like stand-up comedy and musical theatre. How does this unique blend enhance the storytelling?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** It adds layers of engagement. Comedy helps to lighten heavy topics, making them more approachable while still addressing serious issues. The musical elements enrich the emotional experience, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level. It’s about presenting the chaos of motherhood with both humor and honesty.
**Editor:** You tackle deep themes like gender roles and obstetric violence. Why is it essential for you to address these subjects in such a public forum?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** These topics are often taboo, but they deeply affect many lives. By bringing them to the stage, we encourage open discussion and reflection. We want our audience to question the societal structures that dictate their lives and, hopefully, inspire change. It’s about empowerment and understanding that these feelings are valid and shared among many women.
**Editor:** Each performance features a different guest. What do you hope they bring to the show?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Each guest provides a unique perspective, which enriches the performance. They might share personal stories or insights related to the themes. This keeps each show dynamic and emphasizes that everyone’s experience with motherhood and societal expectations is different.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message do you hope audiences take away from “Agoramana”?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** I hope they leave with a sense of connection and understanding. It’s vital for people, especially women, to realize they are not alone in their struggles. We need to dismantle the unrealistic standards imposed on motherhood and recognize the need for support and solidarity among each other.
**Editor:** Thank you so much, Aphrodite. We’re looking forward to the show in Patras!
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou:** Thank you! We can’t wait to share it with everyone.
