A night of Zeibekika at Adelaide’s Festival Centre

·

By Peter Tantalos

On March 23 in a sold-out event, the Festival Hellenika dedicated a musical night to the “Zeibekiko,” a popular dance with deep roots in the folk traditions of Greece and Asia Minor.

Festival Hellenika is an annual multi-disciplinary arts festival, from March to May, that celebrates the richness of Hellenic culture. It aims to maintain, develop, and promote Hellenic links across various art forms, contributing to the enrichment of Australian society.

Zeibekiko is unique for its singular choreographic style, relying on the improvisational movements of the individual dancer throughout the display. It is a typically emotive type of dance, and is learnt by observation and integration of various styles into one’s own technique.

This event brought concertgoers on a journey through the history and origins of Zeibekiko, through the performance of a spectrum of Rebetika, Laika and contemporary songs.

The dance’s name is derived from the Zeibeks of Asia Minor. Initially resembling a war dance, it evolved into an improvised solo dance; A solo dance which now holds a revered place in Greek culture, symbolising not only themes of sorrow, loss and tragedy but also strength, defiance and resilience.

The Zeibekiko dance has evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in Greek society while maintaining its core uniqueness. Initially a masculine performance, women have increasingly participated in recent years, breaking free from traditional gender roles.

The evening was highlighted by performances from an extraordinary musical ensemble. Vocalists Joanna Chryssostomou, Stamatis Dimitrakopoulos, and Jim Mountzouris, under the guidance of maestro Paul Gelios, delivered beautiful renditions of Zeibekiko classics.

Further, the event showcased talented dancers from the Messinian Dance School of SA, and the Greek Orthodox Community of SA (GOCSA) Dance Academy, complimenting the traditional songs with dynamic live performances.

The Festival Hellenika event provided a memorable night that celebrated the traditional culture and emotion of the Zeibekiko. By intertwining the history of the historic struggles of Greeks with the dance’s spirit, the music reaffirmed the enduring legacy of Zeibekiko in Greece’s cultural fabric.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Oldest Greek marble altar found in western Mediterranean

Archaeologists have uncovered a marble column fragment from the 5th century B.C. at the Casas del Turuñuelo site in southwestern Spain.

Alpha restaurant to host centenary celebration honouring Mikis Theodorakis

On Sunday, August 24 at 12pm, Alpha restaurant will host 'Centenary Tribute to Mikis Theodorakis' featuring the Australian Hellenic Choir.

Phlavour Revolution: Greek duo deliver home-cooked goodness to your doorstep

The duo behind restaurant Bahari in Richmond have recently launched a new venture, called Phlavour, ‘Mediterranean Ready Meals.’

Webinar for Greeks abroad tackles key tax issues and draws hundreds

The first TaxWebinar dedicated exclusively to Greeks abroad and tax residents of other countries was held on Wednesday, July 9.

From passports to tax reform: Loverdos sets agenda ahead of Australia visit

Loverdos has confirmed that he will be visiting Australia from 8 to 26 October, acknowledging the government’s absence from the country.

You May Also Like

Inside the new Wall Street hotel by Australia’s Paspaley family

The Paspaley's have recently opened a hotel on Wall Street bringing their signature pearl style and a taste of Broome, Australia to New York.

TGH Exclusive: Author of ‘The First Third’ Will Kostakis reveals the positive impact of his yiayia on his work

The Greek Herald sat down with author Will Kostakis to talk about his recent book Monuments, influences when writing The First Third and how his yiayia has impacted his works.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis reflects on faith and resilience in Easter message

Kyriakos Mitsotakis shares his 2025 Easter message, reflecting on global challenges and the enduring hope of the Resurrection.