AEF2026: Moires

This June marks a poignant milestone in Athenian venue history. Before the legendary Odeon of Herodes Atticus falls silent for a multi-year restoration, the Athens Epidaurus Festival presents the 'Farewell Festivities'. It is the last chance to catch a performance under the stars before the "ancient shell" is tucked away for its essential makeover.

The legacy of the two Romans, Emperor Hadrian and Herodes Atticus, redefined the architectural and cultural landscape of Athens. Upon ascending the throne in 117 AD, Hadrian became a visionary patron who inspired the young Herodes Atticus to dedicate his immense wealth to the city's public works. Together, they gifted Athens monumental landmarks that remain iconic today: Herodes oversaw the complete reconstruction of the Panathenaic Stadium in marble by 143 AD and later, in 161 AD, gifted the city this magnificent, then cedar-roofed Odeon on the southern slope of the Acropolis.  Their shared vision continues to pulse through the capital’s modern identity. These historic sites remain some of the most breathtaking places we still gather under the Athenian sky.

This is a meeting of two giants of the Greek musical landscape. Electronic pioneer Lena Platonos joins forces with the "timeless" voice of Maria Farantouri for the world premiere of  (Fates). The project breathes life into the fragments of ancient female poets like Sappho, Anyte, and Erinna, using a blend of traditional Greek scales and Platonos’ signature electronic soundscapes. It’s a musical mystery that defies oblivion, giving a modern breath to voices that have been silent for millennia.
The evening carries a double weight, as it also celebrates the 45th anniversary of Platonos’ seminal album Sabotage. Flute virtuoso Stathis Karapanos will perform new arrangements of these synth-pop classics, making this a rare treat for aficionados of the Athenian avant-garde.