Des Suppliantes (Hiketides) à l'Orestie: Une relation unique entre la musique de Iannis Xenakis et la mise en scène d'Alexis Solomos

International audienceIn a century that experienced two World Wars, vast technological developments, volatile economic and socio-political conditions as well as cultural revolution, ancient Greek civilisation served as a unique source of inspiration for many artists as they reflected upon and criticised the period. Ancient Greek tragedy in particular became the focus of artistic creation. Theatrical and literary works, dramatic performances, musical composition and scientific studies illustrated its revival throughout Europe. In Greece, various studies conducted by philologists and archaeologists contributed to the renewal of ancient Greek tragedy 2 , as did performances by both amateur groups and professional theatres 3. In spite of political instability, the second half of the twentieth century appeared to be the most prolific. Numerous performances took place in ancient theatres 4 during festivals organised throughout Greece. The most renowned was the Epidaurus Festival, inaugurated in 1954 by famous stage director Dimitris Rondiris 5. Staging an ancient Greek tragedy in the modern world is challenging for stage directors, actors, set and costume designers, as well as choreographers and composers. Several constraints arise from the poetic form of tragedy, the chorus's function 6 , the theatrical space and the translation and adaptation of an ancient Greek text. Also, we have limited knowledge of production in ancient times, especially with regard to staging and musical accompaniment. However, these challenges are regularly overcome creatively, depending on the stag