PROMETHEUS BOUND

Prometheus Bound

Prometheus Bound is an ancient Greek tragedy by Aeschylus. It tells the story of Prometheus, a god who helps humans by giving them fire and knowledge, angering Zeus, the king of the gods. Zeus punishes Prometheus by chaining him to a remote mountain, where he suffers but refuses to give in to Zeus’s authority. The play is about standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s difficult. 

For his second production at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, director Aris Biniaris continues his exploration of ancient tragedy with a fresh take on Prometheus Bound. Inspired by the rhythmic qualities of the poetic text, Biniaris guides the actors to use their bodies and voices to turn words into powerful stage action. Against a lively, live soundscape, the performers bring the characters of this age-old story to life, making it feel as relevant today as it was in ancient times. As the director puts it, this is “a story that can be seen as a bleak commentary on the present or as a bright hope for the future.” 

Yannis Stankoglou plays the title character, Prometheus, who remains a timeless symbol of resistance even while chained on the rocks of the Caucasus. Through his suffering, Prometheus defends humanity against the tyranny of Zeus, inspiring people to think critically, value freedom, and seek personal autonomy. In this tragedy, Aeschylus explores Prometheus’s refusal to submit to Zeus’s will, setting the stage for powerful conflicts and themes that still resonate today.