The historical show “Spartacus, the slave who defied Rome” will be performed in the arenas of Nîmes from Friday, April 24 to Sunday, April 26, with the first activities starting on Tuesday, April 21. From the Gardens of the Fountain to the Esplanade, passing through the Museum of Romanity, there will be plenty of entertainment.
The Roman Days, the second most popular event in Nîmes after the bullfighting festivals, are actively being prepared behind the scenes, especially in the offices of Edeis, the public service delegate for Roman monuments. They are overseeing this large historical reenactment, ensuring a variety of animations, demonstrations, and explanations about the society from two thousand years ago.
To make this event a success, careful planning is underway. There are 20 reenactment associations involved, including groups from France such as Lorica Romana, Leg VI Victrix, Mercenaires du temps, among others, as well as a significant number from Italy like AES Cranna, Leg XIII Gemina, Cohors Veterana, and many more.
The show “Spartacus, the slave who defied Rome” will showcase a spectacular fresco depicting the rebellion of a gladiator against the power of Rome. This meticulously crafted event is produced by the teams from the Roman monuments of Nîmes. Over 400 reenactors will be in action in the arenas, along with 100 local actors from the association Spiritus Nemausus and a dedicated team led by director Fabien Faizant.
Training has been rigorous in preparation for the performances which will take place once a day from April 24 to April 26. The first rehearsals with actors, script teams, directors, volunteers, and French troops, including horses, will commence on April 18 and 19.
On the final review day on April 23, international and French troops will come together for a final run-through. Lead actors Kevin Cotte as Spartacus, Julien Martin as Crixus, along with Gregory Nardella and Éric Collonge will be part of the show.
With regular and specific training leading up to the event, the groups like Lorica Romana are ensuring that every detail is perfected. Members have been practicing combat techniques and technical movements throughout the year.
In addition to the performances, the Roman legionnaires will be available to answer questions from the public during the Roman Days. Spectators will have the opportunity to visit the legionnaires’ fort and explore the arenas from April 21 to 23, along with various activities including historical conferences and gladiator demonstrations.
For tickets and reservations for activities such as the legionnaires’ fort visit and banquet, visitors can check out arenes-nimes.com.
