THE MAGIC KEY by Penelope Delta

Direction: Christina Kouloumbi – Karmen Rouggeri

Ancient Theatre of Philippi
Sunday, 18th August, at 21.00

“The Magic Key” by Penelope Delta, a wonderful fairy tale that offers food for thought, comes to life on the stage of the Ancient Theatre of Philippi on Sunday, 18th August at 21:00, as part of the 67th Philippi Festival. Presented uniquely by Karmen Rouggeri and Christina Kouloumbi, the theatre will be filled with colours, dances, costumes inspired by the traditional attire of our homeland, and traditional music and songs from Southern Italy, creating a universe where the magic of life meets the magic of theatre.

In this work, the author addresses themes such as Devotion, Solidarity, the Joy of Giving, Love for Homeland and Family, Death, Happiness, Misery, Sorrow, and Joy—all elements that we inevitably encounter in this life.

About the play

Once upon a time, there was a king and a queen who lived on a large island. This island was not very rich, but the ruler was just.

The king had everything one could desire, the love of the people, the wealth earned through hard work, and a very good queen. When they had a little girl, their happiness grew even more.

At the christening, the king invited all his people, and a great feast was held. While everyone was celebrating, the fairies of the island came above the baby’s cradle to give their blessings.

The first fairy bestowed beauty, grace, and a lovely voice upon the baby.

The second fairy granted her intelligence.

But the third fairy did not give any of these gifts, but instead she only leaned over the baby’s head and whispered:

– I am Fate. I will not give you a wish like the others. I will protect you from your own life. I wish for you, my little one, that you never be sad and never cry!

She then lightly touched the princess on the chest with her magic wand, took her heart, locked it in a golden box, and disappeared into the night without anyone being able to stop her.

Frightened, the king and queen ran to the baby’s cradle to see if the child was still alive.

– Now, without a heart, how will she love us? asked the queen.

– Without a heart, how will she rule? said the king.

They were so sorrowful when… from afar, they saw Life approaching.

– We forgot about Life! She might save us! said the queen.

– Lady Life, please, you are our last hope. Can you restore our daughter’s heart? asked the king.

– That is impossible, replied Life. Fate is stronger than me. Fate governs life. The only thing I can do is give you this.

She pulled out a chain from her bosom, which had a small golden key at the end.

– If the princess herself ever wants to get her heart back, then with this key…