First stop for this spring at one of the most favorite spots of the city for theater lovers of Patra, with the show being hosted at the “Pantheon” theater.
It is a one-act play of the modern Greek theater dramaturgy that testifies to the settings of a unique theatrical conception, which tends to resemble a black comedy. The authorial attempt of Dimitris Kehaidis “Backgammon” is an eminently intelligent, lively and excellently structured psychological scenario, where through a more social look, one might analyze the realistic aspects of the performance in an experimental social workshop.
Alexandros Rigas and Antonis Krombas on tour with Kehaidis’ play “Backgammon”
This year’s tour of this emblematic work begins, therefore, from Patras in a direction that differs from what we have seen so far. Rigas, in addition to his directing capacity, appears on stage as Kollias Pagouropoulos, in a role outside of his natural norm, which causes problems and at the same time criticizes. The role of the radical Fontas Kalafatidis is played by the iconic actor Antonis Krompas. He plays a theatrical figure in his natural space who is fed by “combines”, while he thinks and acts representing an entire generation, which was struggling to come to light with popular tarpits. As the play’s actions and characters unfold, we witness a repertoire of ongoing tensions and climaxes that sometimes repeats and sometimes converses with the viewer.
Although there were some technical lighting issues, it was the constant general light that ultimately showed a truer aspect of the psyche of the characters. As for the scenography, it stood out aesthetically from the very first minute, as the isolated, artificial iron frame stage with the backgammon shows how a simple game of backgammon symbolizes life itself and its reality. Furthermore, the relationship between the two protagonists was a sincere journey into the heart of Greek culture and the political verisimilitude of the time.
In general, this unique work, “Backgammon” was an achievement of its time but also a show that stares at the remnants of the domineering tendency of the persons, analyzing life essentially through a daily game of backgammon. With a rich mix of drama, comedy and emotions, this show highlighted the importance of friendship, family and traditions in modern Greece. The performances were excellent, with plasticity in the movements and realism, as the dose of truth that the viewer draws from people’s everyday life will keep us company for days. It was an experience that takes us back and at the same time…forward.
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