The play is presented as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney events, under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales.
Highlights
- Aristophanes’ timeless ‘Plutus’ is the play of choice for the Hellenic Art Theatre’s comeback.
- The satire examines the question of wealth distribution, as relevant today anywhere as it was back in 388 B.C. in ancient Greece when written.
- The theatre group had suspended shows due to coronavirus restrictions but is now hoping to overcome the crisis faced by the arts sector, thanks to patrons’ support.
The choice of ‘Plutus’ was purposeful, says Artistic Director Stavros Economidis, who has also directed the play.
“It was written in 388 B.C. after the Peloponnesian war,” he tells SBS Greek.
“The politics and economy of the era is at the heart of its satire, and for us what stands out is that the same [themes] remain relevant today. We all want to be rich, as people did back then.”
The question of wealth (plutus) distribution is examined through an allegory with god Plutus as the protagonist.
Going around blind he distributes riches to the unworthy, until Chremylos sends him to Asclepios to treat his eye-sight. But the intervention sparks… unintended consequences. More on that to follow on stage.
The cast includes: Polyzois Patelis, Dionysis Messaris, Harry Tsavalas, Nick Tsioukanis, Evelyn Tsavalas, Chrisoula Messari, Peter Michalopoulos, Leonidas Ellinas, Liana Vertzayias, Costas Vertzayias, Petroula Stamouli and Stavros Economidis.
Source: Supplied/Hellenic Art Theatre
“I have a great team around me indeed,” says the director attributing to them “the secret behind Hellenic Theatre’s success.”
Shows, as per the theatre group’s common practice, will be presented with English surtitles, making them accessible to younger generation Greek Australians but also a broader non Greek-speaking audience.
Meanwhile, the theatre has committed to strict COVID-19 safe guidelines, including the recommendation for all spectators to wear a face mask.
The capacity of the space will also be reduced as per coronavirus regulations from its 180 seats down to 60 at a time.
But the team is not only determined to present a great performance regardless of necessary changes accommodated, but also survive the current crisis facing theatre and the arts more broadly.
“Now, more than ever, theatre and all the arts needs our community’s support!,” Mr Economidis says.
“Hellenic Art Theatre has suffered economically, as all the arts sector has. We have had no income this year to pay for our expenses including our rent. To help keep our ‘Theatraki’ doors open we are counting on you, our valued patrons, to spread the word to you family and friends. We have been here for the past 40 years and want to be here for the next 40!
“Plutus” premieres on Saturday, 5 September. Six performances will take place in total on Saturdays (7.30p.m.) and Sundays (4p.m.) till 20 September at the Marrickville venue, Building 36, 142 Addison Rd, NSW 2204. For more information and bookings visit or call 0413 989 007.
Press play on the main photo to listen to the podcast in Greek.
