The spirit of Greece came alive in Sydney earlier this month as the Cretan Youth Association of Sydney and the Kalymnian Youth Society of NSW joined forces to host Xoro, a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition and youth.
Held on Saturday, 11 October 2025, at the Ashbury Bowling Panarcadian Federation Club, the event drew a full house of families, friends and community members eager to experience a night of kefi, music and dance.
The evening featured an exceptional lineup of live musicians from both communities, blending the haunting beauty of the Cretan lyra and laouto with the soulful rhythms of the Kalymnian violin.
Performing on the night were Alexander Mountakis, Dylan Giannoulis, George Siganakis and Prodromos Moysiadis from the Cretan ensemble, alongside Mixalis Gialamas, Haralabos Gialamas and Manoli Karagiorgiou representing the Kalymnian musicians.
Cretan Youth Association of Sydney President Angelique Belivanis said the idea for Xoro began as a simple conversation between two friends and musicians – Mountakis and Karagiorgiou.
“They wanted to bring the Cretan and Kalymnian youth together for one night filled with music, dancing, and celebration,” she told The Greek Herald.
“From there, both of our committees came together, brainstormed, and worked for months to make it happen.
“The event means a lot to us because it represents unity and collaboration between two proud Greek communities… even though our islands are far apart, we share the same spirit, pride, and sense of hospitality.”
Belivanis described the night as “honestly amazing.”
“The energy in the room was full of kefi from start to finish. We had incredible live musicians, non-stop dancing, and such a strong turnout from both communities – even friends from interstate. It was one of those nights where you look around and think, ‘This is exactly why we do what we do’,” she said.
Kalymnian Youth Society of NSW President Maria Gourlas echoed the sentiment, calling Xoro “a celebration of our uniqueness and commonalities.”
“It’s about blending traditions, our love for the motherland, and ensuring the continuation of our culture for future generations,” she said.
Gourlas added that the night ran smoothly with only “a few minor hiccups,” as both dancing groups performed traditional sets in full costume.
“It was even more memorable as we were lucky enough to have two very talented Kalymnian musicians from Darwin, Haralambos and Mihali Gialamas, fly down and entertain for part of the night. Everyone had a blast – dancing, singing, and socialising. The feedback from members and friends has been extremely positive and uplifting,” Gourlas said.
As the final songs played and the dance floor stayed full until the early hours, Xoro stood as a reminder that the heartbeat of Greek youth culture in Australia remains strong – united by music, friendship, and the timeless rhythm of tradition.
