“Don’t be afraid. It’s theatre.”
"Fear of what's going to happern isn't a problem. It's the start of improvisation." – John Cale.
The National Theatre of Greece’s Experimental Stage moves to the ground floor of the Dipylon Theatre to launch a vibrant new artistic meeting place, foregrounding the process of creation, rehearsal, and theatrical experimentation. This year, the Experimental Stage is shifting its focus from the final artistic result – and the limitations imposed by time – to the genesis of a production. Through the lively interaction of creators and audiences, it emphasises what theatre brings into being in the here and now, always grounded in collaboration, equality, and a sense of shared responsibility. It takes a three-pronged approach.
Heads of Experimental Stage: Akillas Karazisis - Nefeli Maistrali
1. Ensemble – A group of actors
Through an audition process, a 16-member ensemble of actors has been put together, working collectively to cultivate a culture of collaboration, experimentation and artistic continuity that will last throughout the year. Freed from the usual obligation to come up with a finished product, the ensemble is encouraged to create material in a climate of exploration, rehearsal and discovery.
2. Ongoing Open Rehearsal | From 8 October
The Ongoing Rehearsal entitled Kaputt / War, a Vaudeville, will have its doors open throughout the year. Every Wednesday and Thursday, from 6pm to 10pm, the public will have the opportunity to watch a live creation – not a performance – that is in perpetual motion and evolution. Payment of a nominal fee entitles visitors to stay for as long as they wish – from 4 minutes to 4 hours. On stage, the ensemble will narrate, sing, dance, and act, drawing on theatrical, literary and musical sources. The Open Rehearsal will revolve around Curzio Malaparte’s novel Kaputt and other related material related to the theme of War.
3. Six theatrical sketches
Six artists from different fields (theatre, dance, music, and performance) will work together with the ensemble, creating six “sketches” inspired by the theme of the National Theatre of Greece’s 2025-26 Artistic Programme, Language. Their aim will be to engage in an equal, honest and creative dialogue with the group.
Latest updated: 24/10/2025
