Hundreds and thousands of people have passed through the Forest Theatre of Thessaloniki, also known as Theatro Dassous, to enjoy performances of ancient Greek drama, music, and dance.

Located on the slopes of Kedrinos Hill, it is the most emblematic open-air theatre venue of the National Theatre of Northern Greece (NTNG) and a popular meeting spot for locals with its panoramic views of the bustling city and its port.

But having operated since 1976 without interruption, over the years the theatre has suffered considerable wear and tear and so the NTNG has launched act4Greece; a new fundraising initiative to make the maintenance possible.

Work commenced in mid-December last year and will continue until 30 April with a budget of €132,880. The NTNG is directly contributing €27,880, and is seeking additional financial resources of €105,000 from all lovers of the arts, and those who have had the opportunity to enjoy a performance at the theatre firsthand.

All funds will go directly to ensuring the structure and seating are waterproofed in accordance to regulations, along with the set up of a theatre prop shop, to housekey parts of stage sets and costumes of historic NTNG productions. It will also be a space open to the general public, and will benefit students with the chance to organise guided visits for schools.

To make the initiative interactive, those wishing to donate are also invited to send their own photos or videos from their experiences at the Forest Theatre. They will be published on their website at the end of the project together with the names of the donors.

Donations can be made through the National Bank of Greece’s internet, phone and mobile banking to account 080/005126-84 (ΙΒΑΝ: GR96001100800000008000512684 / BIC: ETHNGRAA). Send your photos and videos to ntngreece@gmail.com