CULTURE

Stage vet is back with a satirical show

The return to the stage by veteran showman Giorgos Marinos is news in itself, but the prospect is highlighted further by the promising content of his upcoming production, to be held at a new venue, Mikros Kerameikos, for a limited number of Friday-to-Monday performances beginning tonight. For his comeback shows, the all-round entertainer, who has worked mostly in cabaret-type theater for decades, and, more recently, dabbled with television, will present a satirical look at the newer types of television – such as reality shows and talent-scouting shows – and the overall decadence of today’s artistic scene in Greece. «I’d felt great and very keen about the prospect of appearing on stage for quite a while,» Marinos told a news conference earlier this week. «I’ve seen some other productions this season and can say that what we do is not done elsewhere. I hope I don’t disappoint you.» A musical production titled «Marinos Academy,» it features the top-selling local pop singer Iro, as well as nine young performers. Some 360 aspiring artists auditioned for the roles. While offering details on the production, Marinos offered insight into the changes taking place in the local entertainment scene. «There was an enormous amount of material to work with. It’s one of the things that has changed in [Greek] nightlife. Half the Greek population either acts or sings, and there’s considerable unemployment, which is why the youngsters are getting organized. They’re learning to sing and dance to high standards,» he added. Marinos’s new production, three hours long, pokes fun at runaway TV hits of recent years, including a Greek-Turkish series, while also offering lessons in Greek dance and ancient drama. While jabbing at others, Marinos has no fear of sending himself up. A big part of the show takes a satirical look at contemporary Greek music, or, as Marinos noted, «the pain, melancholy, and monotony it carries.» Seasoned singer-songwriter Dimitra Galani provided the production’s music. Direction and texts are by Michalis Reppas and Thanassis Papathanassiou. The choreography is by Fokas Evangelinos. The production’s other cast members are: Eleni Gerodimou, Konstantinos Kotsadam, Marianthi Kyriou, Yiannis Mathes, Eleni Sidera, Kostas Hatzidimitriou, Tassos Charanias, Jorge, and Elpida Pramas. Mikros Kerameikos, 56 Kerameikou & Marathonos, tel 210.522.2222. Begins 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday), 9 p.m. (Sunday and Monday).

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