The ‘festival that never ends’ is set to continue offering cultural productions in 2024 and to wrap up a busy 2023 agenda, it welcomes two more shows this December. A Shakespearean play in German and a renowned Greek play that has won over children’s hearts are the two productions that will follow.

First up is Hamlet by William Shakespeare directed by Thomas Ostermeier who won the Venice Biennale’s Golden Lion in honour of his work. Ostermeier will visit Cyprus for the first time this month to present the play to Nicosia audiences on December 14 and 15. His Hamlet delivers on its reputation as one of the great interpretations of Shakespeare. Pop music, drag shows and courtly duels coexist in riotous harmony in the German auteur’s legendary production, which comes to the Nicosia International Festival after travelling the globe to international acclaim. The play will be in German with surtitles in Greek and English.

capture

To conclude the festival’s 2023 season is the beloved show The Lazy Dragon. After five records, 200 million views on YouTube and a huge reception in Greece and Cyprus, The Lazy Dragon and its creator Giorgos Hadjipieris first stepped onto the stage of the Nicosia International Festival in 2022. Now, following sold-out performances at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall and the Megaron, the Athens Concert Hall, they return to Nicosia.

The musical performance will take place from December 27 to 29 with dual performances on December 28 and 29. The show will include The Lazy Dragon’s greatest hits and impressive costume and set designs to bring the world of the Lazy Dragon to life.

Hamlet

William Shakespeare’s play, directed by the award-winning Thomas Ostermeier. Part of the Nicosia International Festival. December 14-15. Nicosia Municipal Festival, Nicosia. 8.30pm. In German with surtitles in Greek and English. www.soldoutticketbox.com

The Lazy Dragon

Renowned children’s show returns to Nicosia. Part of the Nicosia International Festival. December 27-29. Nicosia Municipal Festival, Nicosia. 7pm and 4pm on December 28 and 29. In Greek. www.soldoutticketbox.com