Greece and Lithuania Strengthen Cultural Ties with ‘Philoctetes’ Theater Project

Director Cezaris Graužinis ,Lithuanian Ambassador Lina Skerstonaite, Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, Jaunimo Theater Artistic Director Audronius Liuga. Photo source: Culture Ministry

Lithuania’s Jaunimo National Theater is preparing to present the ancient Greek tragedy “Philoctetes” by Sophocles during the summer of 2026, the Greek Culture Ministry announced on Thursday.

The cultural collaboration was revealed following a meeting in Athens between Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and the Ambassador of Lithuania to Greece, Lina Skerstonaite.

During the meeting, the two officials discussed the close cultural ties between their countries and explored ways to further strengthen these connections. A key topic was the collaboration between the national theaters of Greece and Lithuania, particularly within the Creative Europe program — a European Union funding initiative designed to support the cultural, creative, and audiovisual sectors across Europe.

Philoctetes at the Jaunimo National Theater

Regarding the presentation of “Philoctetes” at the Jaunimo National Theater, the production will feature both Greek and Lithuanian actors performing together on stage.

The play will be directed by Cezaris Gražinis, a renowned director with more than 15 years of experience working at the ancient Greek theater of Epidaurus. Gražinis has been recognized and awarded by the Union of Greek Critics for Drama and Music for his contributions to the field of ancient Greek drama.

The meeting between Mendoni and the Lithuanian Ambassador was also attended by Gražinis and the Artistic Director of the Jaunimo Theater, Audronius Liuga.

According to the Greek Culture Ministry, the cultural initiative highlights exchange between the two countries, with notable Greek theater directors offering seminars throughout the production process. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience a play that blends the traditions of the Greek poetic language with Lithuania’s metaphorical theatrical style.

During the meeting, the possibility of teaching ancient Greek drama in Lithuania was also discussed.