Inclusive Performance of ‘The Trojan Women’ at Ancient Epidaurus

In Epidaurus, Greece, a notable performance of Euripides’ “The Trojan Women” was staged, focusing on the aftermath of the fall of Troy and the plight of its women. This performance boasted a cast of both disabled and non-disabled actors and was held in the ancient open-air stone arena.

This event marked a milestone as the first fully accessible performance at the 2,300-year-old theater. Audience members with varying needs were accommodated with Braille programs, tactile models, live audio descriptions, and overhead titles. Improvements in physical accessibility were also implemented throughout the venue.

Greg Polychronidis, a Paralympic gold medalist, praised the event, highlighting its embodiment of equality. He emphasized that such performances should set a precedent for future theater productions. For the performers, this opportunity to take the stage was meaningful, symbolizing a voice for individuals often marginalized. Eirini Kourouvani, a performer using a wheelchair, expressed profound gratitude for her experience on the historic stage for the first time.

Psychologist Ioanna-Maria Gertsou, accompanied by her guide dog, Babu, emphasized the importance of equal access to cultural events, relieved that her dog remained calm throughout the play.

The National Theater of Greece, supported by the nonprofit Liminal and financial aid from Greece’s Alpha Bank, produced the play. Artistic Director Argyro Chioti stressed the need for such productions to become standard practice, acknowledging the complexity, financial investment, and specific expertise required to create an inclusive performance environment.