A Month of Unforgettable Performances in June 2026 Before Its Restoration Closure Greek City Times
For one final month before closing for major restoration works, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus will host an exceptional program full of symbolism and artistic excellence.
As part of the Athens and Epidaurus Festival 2026, the ancient Roman monument at the foot of the Acropolis presents “Farewell Celebrations” — a rich series of performances that blend classical music, avant-garde, Greek tradition, and cinematic mysticism.
Artistic Director Michael Marmarinos described the special month with these words:
“The Herodion is today considered one of the most emblematic ancient conservatories in the world. In June 2026 — a month with special symbolism — thanks to an intelligent gesture that transforms a temporary hardship into an inventive possibility, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus opens its gates for a single month. All the events presented this year on its stage constitute a special Farewell Celebration.”
Program Highlights
- Víkingur Ólafsson – The acclaimed Icelandic pianist makes his Greek debut (June 3)
- Blade Runner Live – Vangelis’ legendary score performed live with HD projection (June 4)
- Stavros Xarchakos – “In the Present” (June 5–6) and a tribute to Epirus tradition (June 9)
- Manos Hadjidakis Year – Two major concerts dedicated to “America” (June 10 & 17)
- Stamatis Kraounakis – “Lysistrata” opera (June 12–13)
- Einstürzende Neubauten – Industrial avant-garde meets ancient stones (June 18)
- Lena Platonos & Maria Farantouri – “Fate” (June 19)
- Lykke Li – First-ever concert in Greece (June 22)
- Stathis Livathinos – “Hecabe – In the Shadow of the State” (June 25–26)
- Gustav Mahler’s 8th Symphony – “Symphony of a Thousand” (June 29)
Detailed Program
June 3 | Vikingur Ólafsson: Opus 109
The internationally renowned Icelandic pianist, known for his billions of streams and recent Grammy Award, presents a program centered on Beethoven’s Sonata No. 30, connecting Bach, Beethoven, and Schubert through the tonality of E.
June 4 | Blade Runner Live
Ridley Scott’s dystopian masterpiece is projected in high definition while Vangelis’ iconic soundtrack is performed live by the 11-member Avex Ensemble — a unique fusion of futuristic noir and ancient architecture.
June 5 & 6 | Stavros Xarchakos: “In the Present.”
The beloved composer returns with a multi-layered performance featuring Lina Nikolakopoulou, Iro Saia, Dimitris Basis, and the children’s choir from Syros.
June 9 | Epirus
A heartfelt tribute to Petroloukas Chalkias with young musicians and veteran masters of the Epirus clarinet tradition.
June 10 & 17 | Manos Hadjidakis – “America” (Parts 1 & 2)
Two special concerts celebrating the 100th anniversary of the great composer’s birth, featuring the Athens State Orchestra, Raining Pleasure, and pianist George-Emmanuel Lazaridis.
June 12 & 13 | Stamatis Kraounakis: Lysistrata
A vibrant operetta based on Aristophanes’ comedy, starring Dimitra Galani and Lena Ouzounidou.
June 15 | Arvo Pärt
The Tallinn Chamber Orchestra and Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir perform mystical works under the direction of Tõnu Kaljuste.
June 15 | Arvo Pärt
June 18 | Einstürzende Neubauten
The German industrial legends bring their metallic, experimental sound to the ancient Odeon in what promises to be a historic night.
June 19 | Lena Platonos meets Maria Farantouri
An evening dedicated to ancient poets (Sappho, Corinna, etc.) through the unique voices of Platonos and Farantouri.
June 22 | Lykke Li
The Swedish indie pop star makes her long-awaited debut in Greece.
June 25 & 26 | Stathis Livathinos: “Hecabe – In the Shadow of the State.”
A bold theatrical composition combining Euripides’ tragedy with Plato’s “Myth of the Cave.”
June 29 | Gustav Mahler – Symphony No. 8
The Athens State Orchestra under Michal Nesterovich closes the month with Mahler’s monumental “Symphony of a Thousand.”
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Bill Giannopoulos
Junior Editor
Bill Gee is a journalist covering geopolitics, defence and Hellenic diaspora news.
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