“Iphigenia in Kos” — musical reading

According to a new oracle, there is no alternative. Avlida Beach. The landscape looks hostile, signs of exploitation everywhere. A huge industrial complex dominates the view, the Cement Factory of Chalkida. A woman walks on the seashore. A man approaches her to ask for a light. She’s talking to ghosts. According to legend, the young Iphigenia had to be sacrificed here so that a strong wind would rise and the ships could set sail for Troy. So far so good. But Avlis? Why was she sacrificed? How can this land be inhabited now? A polyphonic monologue unfolds to the rhythm of the waves coming and going like a loom weaving with the wind sending a message: Violence, solidarity, affection.

The KET hosts a reading of Maria Kakoyannis‘ new book, “Iphigenia in Kos”, the Greek version of which is published in November by Keimena Publications. The reading will be accompanied by live music by Vincent Gueillet. A discussion with the audience will follow.

Maria Kakoyanni is a text-worker. Writing, translation, performance, editorial adventures, writing workshops are all part of her non-hierarchical approach to working with words. She feels close to Toni Morrison’s words, “We do langage.” She has lived and worked in France for twenty years. After a PhD in philosophy, she began teaching philosophy at several French universities, notably Paris 8. Slowly she began to shift towards literature, drama and performing arts although she still cultivates the weed of philosophy.

Vincent Gueillet is a musician (guitar, bass) and sound artist. He has participated in various rock, reggae, funk bands and worked for several years as a programmer in Art Cinemas in France. He is a self-taught musician and tries to maintain a childlike approach, i.e. experimenting with what he doesn’t know.

The book “Iphigenia in Kos” was published in France by Excès. Maria Kakoyanni and Vincent Gueillet, in collaboration with Kala Neza and Chantal Raffanel (production théâtre Isle 80), created a performance of the same name that was presented at the Avignon off festival for two consecutive years (2023-2024) and continues to be presented at festivals and alternative venues.

www.keimenabooks.gr/books/ifigeneia-stin-ko

*The reading is in the greek language.