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The composer Dimitris Papadimitriou interprets Aesop’s fables as providing archetypal lessons in citizenship. They mould our social and political thought, and differ from the classical fairytales of the European tradition in not seeking recourse to fear or the supernatural.
The Aesop-meets-Karaghiozis idea was thrown into the mix by Giorgos Kordellas during the creation process, and the Fables are enacted in the singular world of the shadow puppet theatre, which also provides the setting in which Aesop/Karaghiozis relates scenes from his life between tales.
Aesop travelled widely, which is why so many countries and cities claim him as their own. Although some say he never lived, we accept him as a real person, since his presence is still so palpable and his bequest to Mankind so important. His heroes are mainly animals that live, speak and act like men. His dialogues are brief, his stories short, and they all end with a lesson to be learned. Aesop’s fables have travelled the length and breadth of the world. Very different cultures are familiar with his fables, or have tales, stories and humorous narratives based on them. His fables are numerous, and while some are very well-known, others are less so.
Composition: Dimitris Papadimitriou Lyrics & texts: Giorgos Kordellas Shadow puppet theatre: Ilias Karellas
Directorial oversight: Dimitris Papadimitriou, Giorgos Kordellas, Ilias Karellas
Lighting: Philippos Koutsaftis Concept: Rallou Voyiatzi Production: The Greek Plan
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