«APOKENTROUSA» by Estera Momes
30 years Aloni Theater Festival

30 years Aloni Theater Festival

Theatrical Performance
«APOKENTROUSA» by Estera Momes

Tuesday, August 5th | 21:00

Aloni Theater
Agios Georgios Nileias, Pelion

The original theatrical production "APOKENTROUSA" by Estera Momes explores women's experiences in society and their transitions through various life roles - from daughter to wife, to mother, to mother-in-law.

At the heart of this journey stands marriage, a key transitional moment in identity. The three ritual stages of the wedding - separation, transition, and incorporation - are embodied on stage through four female performers.

The magical and symbolic nature of the wedding ceremony coexists with the real stories of everyday women.
Is personal choice possible within the boundaries set by collective expectations?

The concept of women's free will and the "woman's choice" are brought into dialogue with the present, explored as timely and relevant issues.

In what ways do the women who raised us live on within us?

The material of the performance is drawn from interviews and oral testimonies of women from Western Macedonia. Through live traditional music, a contemporary dystopian soundscape, dance, and traditional dress, the piece brings to life the stories of ordinary women from past generations - creating a parallel narrative with the stages of the wedding ritual.

The traditional costume, as a cultural symbol, reflects the history and identity of its place of origin. Deeply tied to women's identity, it speaks to their place and role in society. It becomes a complex semiotic portrait, central to the individual's presence in the community.

Through the ritual of dressing the bride, the performance examines the role of womanhood and its relationship with society.

CREDITS

Research - Concept: Mantó Katsougri, Polyxeni Konstantinou
Dramaturgy: The ensemble
Performed by: Mantó Katsougri, Melina Koffa, Myrto Koffa, Polyxeni Konstantinou
Music: Hydrama (Alexis Ephraimidis)
Set Design: The ensemble
Lighting Design: Dimitris Logothetis
Assistant Director: Aspa Vallianatou
Costumes: Wardrobe of the Lyngistes Association of Greek Traditional Dances
Live Musicians: Kostas Karamesios, Yiannis Tsiplakoulis
Poster Design: Ion Taliouridis
Trailer Editing & Photography: Cleanthis Kommatas