In May and June they have a theater season where they represent ancient Greek plays (in Italian). I just attended the play 'Edipo Re' by Sophocle. I was blown away not only because of the production and acting, but because of the scenario.

In May and June they have a theater season where they represent ancient Greek plays (in Italian). I just attended the play 'Edipo Re' by Sophocle. I was blown away not only because of the production and acting, but because of the scenario.
Classic Greek play Antigone by Sophocles performed in Italian in the ancient Greek Theater here. Could not understand Italian but was familiar with the play and could follow the plot. Fabulous acoustics but enhanced by modern technology. Amazing to see 85% of audience was high and college age people. Not for everyone but for me it was a magical moment....
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Expensive unless you are EU resident, most of seating covered in wood which may be fine for performances but detracts from visit for just the antiquity value. Would consider for a performance since acoustics are said to be excellent but would recommend " visit only" to the Taormina Greek theater which is much more photogenic.
I totally agree to my fellow contributors. I had to pay an entrance fee to have a look at a modern construction. They do the same in Taormina - but with much better style and not robbing the tourists.
No navigation in Italian or other language. The theatre was undergoing construction work for forthcoming events. So natural theatre was covered. We visited a much lesser known and 'valued' Greek theatre in Cartagena, Spain a few years ago. The Italians working here should go there for lessons.
There is something neat about how this greek theater still hosts plays. While all of the modern adjustments made to protect the theater while it is in use diminish the full view of the structure, the experience of continuing an ancient tradition remains intact. Also amazing are the catacombs immediately behind the top row of seats.
We had planned to spend some time in the area, so we were surprised to see that a large portion of the Greek theatre was obscured by building work going up so that a modern show could be presented in this auditorium. I applaud the city for continuing to use a great site and with some consideration for the history,...
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Monumental with fantastic views to the sea from the top. Well worth a visit. Hang on to your tickets because they are needed for the Roman theatre.
Much larger than the theatre at Taormina and a stunning setting. Extra interest is added by the fountain that comes in behind it and the fact that there is a Roman theatre nearby. you can compare and contrast.
Syracuse has been a total disappointment. It comes across as just being a place to take money from tourists. We thought we would venture out to the Greek Theater. We paid the 10 euro per person entry fee, and Wow, was a complete rip off and total disappointment. They were preparing the ampitheatre for an upcoming concert. They were actually...
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