Celebrated director Michael Marmarinos has been appointed the new artistic director of the Hellenic Festival Organization, which oversees the prestigious Athens-Epidaurus Festival.
His three-year term will begin at the end of August, following the departure of current director Katerina Evangelatou.
Mr. Marmarinos succeeds Ms. Evangelatou, who is stepping down after six years leading the institution. Her tenure, which included two consecutive terms, was widely praised for revitalizing the festival, expanding its audience, and increasing its international profile.
In a statement Monday, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni commended Ms. Evangelatou’s contributions, describing the transition as “a moment to pass the torch from a distinguished creator to an equally worthy successor.”
She noted that the festival is celebrating its 70th season this year as a landmark of Greece’s cultural life and an international reference point.
Mr. Marmarinos, a director, playwright, and actor, brings decades of experience and international recognition to his new role. Known for his innovative approach to theater, which he describes as “directing as dramaturgy,” Mr. Marmarinos has staged works across Europe and North America, drawing from classical texts, contemporary writing, and original compositions.
He is the founder of the experimental company “Theseum Ensemble,” formerly “Diploos Eros,” and has taught theater since 1994, currently serving as a full professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. His productions have received numerous awards in Greece and abroad. Most recently, he served as artistic director of "Eleusis 2023 – European Capital of Culture."
Ms. Mendoni said Mr. Marmarinos is expected to continue the festival’s international focus and connect with new audiences. “He has all the qualifications for a productive term in a demanding position,” she said, emphasizing his deep understanding of stagecraft and ongoing engagement with global artistic trends.
The ministry thanked Ms. Evangelatou for her dedicated work and affirmed that she will assist with a smooth leadership transition. Ms. Mendoni said her successor "needs no introduction" and carries with him "the good wishes of us all."
Founded in 1955, the Athens-Epidaurus Festival is one of the oldest and most renowned performing arts festivals in Europe, held annually at historic venues such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.