**UCy Cultural Festival Returns with High-Quality Productions**
The 29th Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus is back for its second half, continuing to offer a diverse array of cultural productions that promise to enrich Nicosia's evenings. Running from September to October, the festival will feature a total of 19 events at the Michalis Pieris Cultural Centre, also known as Axiothea Mansion. This year's lineup includes performances from various countries, including Cyprus, Greece, Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Colombia, the United States, China, Korea, Iran, and Kurdistan.
Kicking off the festival's autumn agenda is the Persona Theatre Company's production of "Seven Against Thebes," an ancient Greek tragedy by Aeschylus. The performance, directed by Lea Maleni, is set to take place on September 5. Originally created for the 29th International Ancient Greek Drama Festival 2026, this production has been reimagined to resonate with contemporary audiences.
In Maleni's interpretation, "Seven Against Thebes" serves as a powerful commentary on the themes of war and its cyclical nature. The narrative explores how revenge leads to further violence, highlighting the destructive consequences of conflict. The director aims to connect the ancient myth with modern realities, suggesting that the struggles depicted in the play are not confined to the past but are reflective of ongoing issues in today's world.
A notable aspect of this production is its multilingual approach. The performance incorporates seven different languages, including Arabic, Farsi, Somali, Hindi, and Serbian. This choice is deliberate, as it brings together voices from regions that have experienced war, displacement, and loss. By weaving these languages into the fabric of the performance, the production aims to create a dialogue between Aeschylus' work and the lived experiences of individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
The production has received support from the Cyprus Centre of the International Theatre Institute and the Deputy Ministry of Culture, which also co-organized the event. This collaboration underscores the importance of cultural exchange and the role of the arts in addressing pressing social issues.
As the festival unfolds, attendees can look forward to a rich program that showcases both local talent and international artists. The performances are designed to not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion among audiences.
The "Seven Against Thebes" performance is scheduled for 8:30 PM at the Michalis Pieris Cultural Centre, with tickets priced at €10. For more information, interested individuals can contact the venue at 22-894531 or via email at [email protected].
The Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus continues to be a vital platform for artistic expression, fostering cultural appreciation and dialogue within the community. As it enters its second half, the festival promises to deliver memorable experiences that resonate with audiences in Nicosia and beyond.