The City Dionysia - March 22, 2021
The City Dionysia - March 22, 2021 1:07 PM / Jessie
The City Dionysia was a widely popular festival held in honor of Dionysus. It was believed to be held for about 6 days from the 10th to the 16th of Elaphebolion. Athenian citizens and foreigners alike would gather to watch the famed drama competition held every year in celebration of the festival. Many of the ancient plays that we know and love today were not only performed during The City Dionysia but also won the overall competition.
Considering the focus on theatre, the obvious choice celebrating this festival in the modern world would be to do something within that sphere. Personally, I have opted to go down two avenues of theatre: reading ancient plays and having a musical marathon.
It worked out perfectly that I became quite interested in Ancient Greek plays specifically those connected to The Iliad this year which is also my first year officially celebrating The City Dionysia. So, I knew immediately that I wanted to use this time to indulge in some ancient plays. If you have been interested or even curious about Ancient Greek plays and literature this festival is the perfect time to explore those interests! Not sure where to start? Can’t go wrong with The Bacchae by Euripides!
It is important to note that you can read (and even perform) whatever plays you wish! It does not have to be the Ancient Greek plays. You can even use this time to write your own stories!
I can’t take credit for the musical marathon idea. That was all Dionysus. Out of nowhere I found myself unable to get Mr. Mistoffelees out of my head and that lead to all my favorite songs from musicals to play on repeat. With a head full of musicals, it didn’t take long for the light bulb to go off and for Dionysus to flash a smirk my way.
If musicals aren’t your thing no worries because you can enjoy any genre of film for The Dionysia! Feel free to marathon all your favorites or even ones that remind you of Dionysus. It’s completely up to you!
Ideally it would be wonderful to go to the theater to see a live performance however given the current circumstances that is not really an option. But trust me once Rona decides to release us from its grip and Broadway opens back up, I plan on establishing the tradition of seeing a show every Dionysia.
Of course, no festival for Dionysus is complete without some delicious indulgences. Obviously, alcohol specifically wine is a staple for Dionysus however it is no way a requirement. Drink what you enjoy and eat what comforts you. This is a fun and joyful celebration so do what brings YOU joy! We operate under Marie Kondo rules here!
I’d love to know what your plans for The City Dionysia are! What are you reading? What are you watching? What are you eating? Let me know!
Resources
Festivals of the Athenians by H.W. Parke
The Sacred and Civil Calendar of the Athenian Year by Jon D. Mikalson