A year ago today, Ancient Olympia in full bloom was flooded with heavenly voices thanks to the cinematic adaptation of Joyce DiDonato’s “Eden” project. To mark the anniversary, we’ve created a heartfelt behind-the-scenes video.
“Eden in Olympia” with Joyce DiDonato
In April 2024 the American acclaimed mezzo-soprano, accompanied by the ensemble Il Pomo d’Oro, French director Olivier Simonnet, and three children’s choirs – the Children’s Choir of the Greek National Opera, Chœurs ECLATS from France, and the intercultural El Sistema Greece – embarked on an unprecedented emotional journey. Singing music of four centuries, they aimed to restore our awareness of the strength and fragility of nature and to reflect on humanity’s place within our wondrous kaleidoscopic world.
Joyce DiDonato on “Eden in Olympia”
“Eden here has been an amazing experience of joining people from different cultures, different backgrounds. Celebrating the power of human spirit to connect, to return to our natural connection to the Earth and to do it together” stated Joyce DiDonato. The famous singer, also, added that “It has been an extraordinary experience to be here in ancient Olympia, surrounded by a literal Eden at the peak of its powers, in such a historically rich place that was built to celebrate the best of humanity and call all of us to rise to that level”.
“Eden in Olympia”: the project goals
A landmark project that speaks directly to the heart, “Eden in Olympia” has three main goals:
• To serve as a powerful call for the protection of biodiversity and a re-evaluation of humanity’s relationship with nature.
• To make classical music and opera accessible to all, breaking down barriers and prejudices.
• To provide viewers the opportunity to discover and experience Ancient Olympia in an unprecedented and immersive way.
Watch “Eden in Olympia” behind the scenes
The official world premiere was given at Megaron, the Athens Concert Hall, following the symbolic first screening in Ancient Olympia. Twelve months on, the film’s journey continues, planting seeds of hope with upcoming screenings around the world. Spreading the messages of regeneration and of a life-affirming civilisation.
“Join” us behind the scenes and feel the essence of the project!
