– a personal archaeology – by Dimitris Papaioannou
On October 3, 2025, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus will host a very special evening: the premiere of THIS THAT KEEPS ON – a personal archaeology by internationally acclaimed choreographer and visual artist Dimitris Papaioannou. Conceived exclusively for the Museum of Cycladic Art, the performance will take place once and once only, as part of a fundraising event marking the museum’s 40th anniversary.
Papaioannou, known for weaving together myth, memory, and physicality into dreamlike stage worlds, has accepted the museum’s commission by revisiting fragments of his past creations and reworking them into a new dramaturgy. His “personal archaeology” brings together images, bodies, and sculptural forms that reflect his four decades of artistic exploration. Thirty dancers and actors will animate his hybrid creatures, transforming the ancient theater’s stage into a living dialogue between history and the present.
The performance unfolds as a meditation on memory, excavation, fragility, eros, origin, and joy, set against the backdrop of the Cycladic spirit that has long inspired the museum. Papaioannou juxtaposes old and new—reimagined gestures from his past alongside fresh moving images and installations—creating a work that feels both retrospective and forward-looking.
This one-night event is not only a celebration of the artist’s creative journey but also part of a greater transformation. The Museum of Cycladic Art is entering a new era, reimagining itself as a dynamic and inclusive cultural landmark. Proceeds from the evening will directly support this ambitious project, which aims to enrich the visitor experience and solidify the museum’s role on the global stage.
In keeping with its educational mission, the museum and Papaioannou will also offer free tickets to students of fine arts, dance, theater, music, design, cinema, art history, and stage design—ensuring that the next generation of creators shares in the experience.
As the Odeon of Herodes Atticus opens its doors on October 3, THIS THAT KEEPS ON promises to be more than a performance. It is a rare moment in which the personal and the collective, the ancient and the contemporary, converge under the Athenian night sky.
THIS THAT KEEPS ON – a personal archaeology –
Friday, October 3
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Organizer–Production: Museum of Cycladic Art
Concept & Direction: Dimitris Papaioannou
Information: [email protected]
