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
What themes in “Agoramana” do you believe will resonate most with new parents?
**Interview with Aphrodite Mitsopoulou, Creator of “Agoramana”**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Aphrodite. “Agoramana” has already received a warm welcome in Athens and across Greece. What can audiences in Patras expect from this performance?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: Thank you for having me! In “Agoramana,” audiences will experience a deeply personal and often humorous exploration of motherhood and the societal pressures surrounding it. The show navigates the challenges faced by a new mother who feels overwhelmed not just by the logistics of parenting, but also by the relentless, often unsolicited advice from society about what it means to be a ‘good’ mother. It prompts the audience to ask probing questions about gender roles and the definition of family happiness.
**Editor**: You mentioned societal pressure and gender roles. How do you hope your production will resonate with both men and women?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: My aim is for “Agoramana” to challenge traditional narratives that often confine women to certain expectations. We often ignore the challenges men face too, and the show opens up conversations about shared responsibilities in family life. By presenting these themes through a mix of stand-up comedy, documentary, and musical theatre, I hope to engage audiences of all ages and genders in a way that feels relatable and thought-provoking.
**Editor**: The show also touches on the serious issue of obstetric violence. Why was it important to bring this topic into the narrative?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: It’s crucial, especially in discussions about motherhood, to recognize the complexities and sometimes traumas associated with childbirth. By addressing obstetric violence, we aim to shed light on an often-taboo subject and encourage those affected to seek the support they deserve. The hope is to open dialogue and perhaps inspire change in the way obstetric care is approached in our society.
**Editor**: Each show features a different guest integrating into the action. Can you give us an example of how this works?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: Absolutely! Each guest brings their own unique perspective and experiences, enriching the themes we explore. For instance, a recent guest shared their own humorous yet poignant experiences of parenthood, which resonated well with the audience and sparked lively discussion afterward. It’s a collaborative experience that makes each performance unique.
**Editor**: Lastly, what do you hope audiences walk away with after seeing “Agoramana”?
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: I hope they leave feeling seen and heard. Parenting can often feel isolating and filled with self-doubt, and if we can illuminate those shared struggles, fostering a sense of community and support, then I believe we’ve succeeded. I want everyone to feel empowered to question societal expectations and redefine what fulfillment and happiness mean for them individually.
**Editor**: Thank you, Aphrodite, for sharing your insights. “Agoramana” sounds like a compelling production that will resonate with many. We look forward to its arrival in Patras!
**Aphrodite Mitsopoulou**: Thank you! I can’t wait for the audience in Patras to join us on this journey.
