A groundbreaking educational and artistic initiative for children and teenagers is set to take place in Laconia from August 21 to August 25, 2026. The Summer School of Laconia, under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture, will arrive in Neapolis with the theme «Mythologizing with the Youth!»
This significant initiative is a collaboration among several organizations, including:
- The Region of Peloponnese – P.E. Laconia
- The Municipality of Monemvasia
- The Center for Spartan and Peloponnesian Studies at the University of Nottingham
- The Cultural Association of Vatika
- The Society for Spartan Studies
Objectives and Philosophy of the Program
Through experiential music and theater workshops, participants will delve into Greek mythology, which will be reintroduced to them. Myths will no longer be seen as distant fairy tales but as a vibrant part of human history.
The workshops will be based on the principles of Devised Theatre, drawing material from excerpts of Laconian mythology as presented in the upcoming book «Code of Life: Lydia» by author Sarantos K. Minopetros.
Educational Benefits
Music and theatrical education will be utilized as powerful pedagogical tools for the holistic development of children. The initiative aims not only at artistic expression but also focuses on:
- Developing life skills
- Enhancing emotional intelligence
- Promoting creative thinking
- Supporting the multidimensional psychosocial and cognitive development of participants
Educational Team
The implementation of the Summer School will be carried out by esteemed professionals and scholars:
- Ioannis Ismyrnioglou: Music Professor & Educational Program Design Coordinator
- Georgios Kasavetes: Music Professor & Artistic Program Design Coordinator
- Myrto Vlachou: Philologist & Author
- Niki Zavra: Philologist & Special Educator
Workshop Schedule & Performance
- Friday, August 21 to Monday, August 24 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Workshops at the Event Hall of the Cultural Association of Vatika.
- Monday, August 24 (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM): The children’s main performance at the Old Primary School of Neapolis.
- Tuesday, August 25 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Completion of workshops at the Naval Museum of Neapolis.
Participation Information & Registrations
- Cost: Participation is free for all children.
- Ages: The program is aimed at children aged 9 to 16 years (younger or older children may be accepted upon prior arrangement).
- Process: A registration form is required.
- Contact Numbers: 697 692 0582 & 698 457 8189
- Email: spartanstudiessociety@gmail.com
The organizers express their heartfelt gratitude for the support and contributions from the following sponsors:
- Friends of the Public Central Library of Sparta
- Parents, Guardians, and Friends of Individuals with Autism in Laconia «Spectrum of Life»
- «Liotrivi» Publications
- Educational Center «Drasis»
- Agricultural Cooperative for Citrus Processing «LACONIA»
- The entire business community of Neapolis
This initiative promises to be a vibrant and enriching experience for the youth, fostering creativity and a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage.
