The 'Portrait of Dorian Gray': Nadia Kontogeorgi plays 26 roles on stage
Nadia Kontogeorgi stars in a groundbreaking theatrical adaptation of 'The Portrait of Dorian Gray' that explores contemporary themes through a unique hybrid performance.
A highly demanding and much-discussed international theatrical production has begun its journey in Greece at the Poreia Theatre. Oscar Wilde's 'The Portrait of Dorian Gray,' adapted in a radical and award-winning format by Kip Williams, has triumphed in the West End and Broadway. Directed by Dimitris Agiopetritis Bogdanos, the play features Nadia Kontogeorgi undertaking the extraordinary challenge of embodying all 25 roles, within a complex hybrid universe where theatre intersects with cinematic narrative, screens, and digital imagery.
The performance aims for a radical renewal of the theatrical language, transforming Wilde's iconic work into a contemporary existential experience that openly engages with the social media era, avatars, and Artificial Intelligence. This innovative staging not only reinterprets the source material but also interacts with current societal issues, inviting the audience to reflect on identity and the impact of technology on human experience.
In this demanding context, Nadia Kontogeorgi speaks to Vima about the physical and mental challenges of the performance, the allure and fear of the unknown, and the coexistence of various themes within her portrayal. Her reflections provide insight into the artistic process and the profound implications of performing such a multifaceted role in a production that seeks to resonate with modern audiences, challenging them to think critically about the world we inhabit today.