The Department of Classics has announced the return of the annual Greek Play in March 2026 with The Clouds, directed by Giulia Balsamo.
The Clouds is a Greek comedy play written by the playwright Aristophanes. Performed at the Greenwood Theatre, this year's production continues one of the most distinctive and long-standing traditions at King's Department of Classics.
Does being righteous equate to being right? Can democracy endure in a post-truth world? This reinterpretation of Aristophanes' The Clouds explores the dangers of idealism and intellectualism in their emptiest forms. In today's political climate, rife with propaganda and violence, it feels more urgent than ever to reflect on the strategies we choose and the sacrifices we are willing to make in the pursuit of a better world. I am thrilled to be directing this year's KCL Greek Play and eager to begin this journey.
Giulia Balsamo, Director
The Greek Play returns 3-5 March 2026 with three evening performances and a special matinee on 4 March. Each evening will feature a guest speaker: Tuesday - Dr Naomi Scott (University of Bristol); Wednesday - Professor James Robson (The Open University); Thursday - Professor Peter Meineck (NYU/ICS), providing audiences with expert insights into the play's themes and their relevance today.
One of the highlights of the Classics calendar at King's, the Greek Play has been performed annually since 1953.
King's remains the only UK university to perform a piece of Greek drama wholly or partially in the original language each academic year. The production is overseen by the national-touring theatre company Actors of Dionysus, the UK's leading interpreters of ancient Greek drama since 1993. This year's The Clouds explores the tension between fate and freedom.
Those interested in joining the production team behind the scenes are encouraged to contact Laura at [email protected].
