5 Years SNFCC

Get your birthday hats on, we’re going to a party.

The SNFCC turns 5 this year - where does the time go? - and for Athenians it already feels like it’s been around forever. Renzo Piano’s beacon of sustainability is where thousands of visitors and locals flock to indulge in their cultural, athletic and entertainment cravings each year. Home to the Greek National Opera, the National Library of Greece and a rich, mediterranean 50-acre park, the centre’s generous and diverse agenda of - more than often free - activities, has helped cement a new understanding of public space in Athens.

Their anniversary agenda is, as always, jam-packed, so we noted down what not to miss. Have a look below and follow the links for more info on each event.

Gandini Juggling | 4x4: Ephemeral Architectures: Circus and contemporary dance balance on a tightrope in a mesmerising discourse between virtuosos jugglers and ballet dancers.

Otello: Love. Schemes. Jealousy. Murder. Suicide. You would give it a try on Netflix, wouldn’t you? Verdi’s masterpiece directed by Robert Wilson in his first collaboration with the Green National Opera.

Jazz Chronicles: George Kontrafouris’ contemporary jazz improvisations and Sokratis Sinopoulos’ traditional lyra soundtrack your panoramic views from atop the Lighthouse on two separate nights.

Atelier Sisu’s Evanescent: You can always count on the light installations of the SNFCC for that perfect Instagram snap. This season's setup is no exception.

Cheap Smokes: A poetic love letter to Athens, the movie was snubbed by both critics and audience when it came out 22 years ago. Now considered a cult classic, Cheap Smokes is reimagined as a musical in the hands of innovative choreographer and director Konstantinos Rigos. Colour us very intrigued about this one.

Exhibitions, open discussions, workshops and sports activities for kids and adults, all of them with free entrance, complete the festive puzzle set in place at the SNFCC.

Some events are free and some require a ticket. Please check with each event.