Chrysa Kapsouli: '...what it means to live in a world where one cannot exist'
Chrysa Kapsouli discusses the themes of control and morality in the play 'Phaethon' by Dimitris Dimitriadis, highlighting the family dynamics under a totalitarian regime.
The play 'Phaethon' by Dimitris Dimitriadis returns to the stage, directed by Chrysa Kapsouli, under the new theatrical group Bonaventura. It is being showcased at the Fournos Theatre and portrays the intense family dynamics of the Lom family in North London, which becomes a battleground for the forces of Good and Evil, Authority and Subjugation, Obedience and Defiance. Kapsouli emphasizes the struggle between righteousness and oppression, stating that 'Evil must be crushed,' turning the ancient myth on its head.
In her discussion about the play, Kapsouli delves into the narrative of the Lom family living under a regime of absolute control, where the father dictates morality by converting faith and ethics into tools of domination. The portrayal of such a controlling figure reflects broader societal issues and the psychological implications of living under constant surveillance and manipulation. This reflection challenges audiences to consider their own moral agency within oppressive systems.
The themes in 'Phaethon' resonate with contemporary audiences, as they confront personal and communal dilemmas about authority and resistance. Kapsouli's direction brings a fresh perspective to classic narratives, igniting discussions on autonomy, fear, and the human spirit's resilience against tyranny. The show's relevance in today's world may lead to a deeper exploration of how these dynamics impact personal identities and moral frameworks in both theater and society as a whole.