Venue gets fresh impetus from new director

Stathis Livathinos at the Metaxourgeio Theater

The Metaxourgeio Theater has always been very popular. It has maintained its warm and genuine atmosphere since it was founded 10 years ago, by top Greek artists Anna Vagena and her husband Loukianos Kilaidonis.

Over the years, it has proved to be much more than just a family affair. As of this season, director Stathis Livathinos has taken on the duties of artistic director. The presentation took place recently on the occasion of a press conference, at which the program for the season was also announced: Two plays will run, one after the other, from November until the end of May with performances Wednesdays to Sundays, while another three will alternate on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Irish playwright John Millington Synge’s comedy “The Playboy of the Western World” marks the season opening. The play had been staged in Greece only once, many years ago. “With this work we will refresh our view of early 20th- century realist theater,” said Livathinos.

The play, which opened yesterday, is about people’s need to believe in a hero who can take them away, albeit solely in their imagination. As of November 24, a three-part performance titled “Portraits” will go on stage every Monday and Tuesday. The production consists of “The Evridiki Case,” “No. 44” and “Delirium Tremens,” directed by Olia Lazaridou, Giorgos Paloumbis and Stratis Panourios. David Mamet’s “Edmond,” directed by Livathinos, is expected to premiere in mid-February.

Metaxourgeio Theater, 14 Akadimou, Metaxourgeio, tel 210.523.4382.