Ancient Drama: “Influences and Contemporary Approaches”

Michael Cacoyannis Foundation, in the framework of Attica Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013, inaugurated in September 2012 a new, three – year program  with the subject: Ancient Drama: “Influences and Contemporary Approaches” in cooperation with recognized foreign universities.

 

The program is entirely consistent with MCF’s founding goals and is expected to upgrade its educational role, especially when the Ancient Drama is what Michael Cacoyannis had intensively dealt with, with peak the direction of his well known trilogy of films (Electra, Trojan Women, Iphigenia). 

 

The Act Ancient Drama: “Influences and Modern Approaches” is included in MCF’s general program planning for promoting research and study of ancient drama and the formation of an international communication dialogue and discussion network.

 

The exchange of different artistic approaches, theories and practices will –among other things – add to designate Athens as a point of reference for research, study and practice of the ancient drama. At the same time, it will give the opportunity to young artists and students / graduates, especially at such critical times, to broaden their horizons and skills. The program will help them get acquainted with different approaches and different readings, of the, always current, ancient drama works and that of Greek classics, through the perspective of universities and their professors that are reputed for their study and practical applications.  The realization of such a goal is possible now, here in Athens, with plays, seminars and workshops by recognized universities such as Stanford’s and it’s Summer Theater of the U.S., University of Leeds of the U.K. etc.  

 

Moreover, this is another effort by MCF to utilize resources from European Union’s programs, just like it did back in 2007. The construction of MCF’s Cultural Centre, supported by the European Programme “Culture” which was co-financed by the Ministry of Culture and the European Union, is a good example of practice, since its building work completed in 2009 without any delays and without exceeding the budget.   

 

It should be noted that MCF’s Cultural Centre began operating during the economic crisis and succeeds in developing its various and intensive activity without grants from the state. MCF’s resources come from Michael Cacoyannis’ donation, sponsorships and its shows’ revenues.    

 

In its three years of operation, MCF presents a rich artistic and educational program and has been characterized as the liveliest foundation in Athens, honoring always its social services.  

 

Moreover, in such a critical economic situation where the effects of depression are so strong, MCF is looking for ways towards growth and job creation. Hence, MCF’s proposition aiming at Ancient Drama and the Classical Studies was not random at all. 

 

As McKinsey’s knowledgeable financial analysts note in the study conducted on behalf of SEV (Hellenic Federation for Enterprises) in cooperation with the Bank of Greece and the Hellenic Bank Association, one of the two minor industries that can constitute a new extrovert model towards Greek Economy’s growth is the creation and development of programs on Classical Studies. It is also mentioned that internationally recognized universities such as the American Stanford and Harvard as well as the British Oxford and Cambridge are already in the process of forming and promoting such programs.    

 

According to the study, the opportunity for Greece lies in the institution of international programs, like programs for Classical Studies in different languages (i.e. English, Chinese), the formation and strengthening of relations with internationally recognized universities, the successful promotion of similar programs as parts of a greater strategy for tourism etc.