Re-imagining Independence in Contemporary Greek Theatre and Performance

This Element explores performance practices that have emerged since the beginning of the Greek crisis and revisits the mnemonic canon of the Greek War of Independence. It focuses on the institution of the mnemonic canon and its contemporary re-imaginings, interrogating performance work in relation to Greece's histories of colonial dependencies and attesting to an emerging desire for decolonization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 82 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element explores practices that have emerged since the onset of the Greek crisis and revisits the mnemonic canon of the Greek War of Independence. By focusing on the establishment of the mnemonic canon of independence and subsequently on its contemporary re-imaginings, this Element interrogates performance work in relation to Greece's histories of colonial dependencies, which are integral to the establishment of modern Greece. As such, the examples discussed here rehearse independence against and beyond national(ist) fantasies, attesting to an emerging desire for decolonisation.

Since the beginning of the Greek crisis, various practices have emerged, shedding light on the complex dynamics of the region. One significant aspect is the revisiting of the mnemonic canon of the Greek War of Independence. This canon, which encompasses the events and narratives that shaped Greece's struggle for independence, has been reinterpreted and reimagined in contemporary performances.

By examining the institution of the mnemonic canon of independence, this Element delves into the ways in which performance work engages with Greece's histories of colonial dependencies. These histories, which are deeply intertwined with the formation of modern Greece, are often overlooked or marginalized in mainstream narratives. However, performance artists have recognized the importance of acknowledging and challenging these histories, using their work as a means to rehearse independence against and beyond national(ist) fantasies.

Through their performances, artists have explored the complexities of Greek identity and the ongoing struggles for decolonisation. They have challenged the dominant narratives that perpetuate the notion of a unified and homogeneous Greek nation, highlighting the diverse experiences and perspectives of different communities within Greece. By subverting the symbols and narratives associated with the Greek War of Independence, artists have created spaces for dialogue and reflection, encouraging audiences to question the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing struggles for social justice.

One notable example of this is the work of the artist group "The Colonels," who staged a performance in Athens in 2015. The performance, titled "The Colonels," was a re-enactment of the 1967 coup d'état that led to the military dictatorship in Greece. By using historical footage and contemporary dance, the artists aimed to challenge the official narrative of the coup and highlight the role of the military in perpetuating colonialism and authoritarianism.

Through their performance, "The Colonels" emphasized the need for a critical re-examination of Greece's past and the ongoing struggles for decolonisation. They challenged the notion that the Greek War of Independence was a heroic and unifying event, instead presenting it as a complex and contested period marked by political violence and social unrest. By juxtaposing historical footage with contemporary dance, the artists created a powerful and immersive experience that resonated with audiences, sparking discussions and debates about the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing challenges facing Greece.

Another example is the work of the artist collective "Theatre of the Oppressed," which has been active in Greece since the 1970s. The collective uses performance to address social and political issues, particularly those related to marginalised communities and the struggles for social justice. Their work often incorporates elements of theatre, dance, and music to create powerful and evocative performances that challenge the dominant narratives and power structures.

In their performance "The Last Supper," which was staged in 2008, the collective explored the experiences of Greek immigrants in Europe. The performance depicted a group of immigrants sharing a meal, and through their interactions, the collective highlighted the struggles and challenges faced by immigrants in a hostile and discriminatory environment. By using performance to bring attention to the experiences of marginalized communities, the collective aimed to challenge the dominant narratives and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.

Through their work, artists have demonstrated an emerging desire for decolonisation in Greece. They have challenged the dominant narratives that perpetuate colonialism and nationalism, highlighting the ongoing struggles and complexities of Greek identity. By rehearsing independence against and beyond national(ist) fantasies, artists have created spaces for dialogue and reflection, encouraging audiences to question the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing challenges facing Greece.

In conclusion, the Element explores practices that have emerged since the beginning of the Greek crisis and revisits the mnemonic canon of the Greek War of Independence. By focusing on the establishment of the mnemonic canon of independence and subsequently on its contemporary re-imaginings, this Element interrogates performance work in relation to Greece's histories of colonial dependencies, which are integral to the establishment of modern Greece. Through their performances, artists have demonstrated an emerging desire for decolonisation, challenging the dominant narratives and promoting a more inclusive and equitable society. As Greece continues to navigate its complex political and social landscape, performance art continues to play a vital role in shaping public discourse and promoting social change.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 149 x 229 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009250573