Greek dance and culture were brought to life across Melbourne’s southeast on Friday, March 27, as Dimosthenis Manasis led a series of engaging performances and workshops marking both Harmony Week and Greek National Day.
From school grounds to community stages, Manasis and his team from the MANASIS School of Greek Dance and Culture showcased the vibrancy of Hellenic tradition to diverse audiences – many of whom had little or no prior connection to Greek heritage.
Cultural exchange at The Knox School
One of the day’s most notable moments took place at The Knox School, where Manasis was invited by staff member Natasha Tereschenko to deliver a lunchtime cultural workshop for students.
Despite the school having only a handful of students from Greek backgrounds, the session drew wide participation, reflecting the broader multicultural makeup of the student body.
Joined by dancers Zacharoula and Alkis in traditional costume, Manasis introduced students to elements of Greek music and dance, culminating in a lively group performance of zeibekiko and hasaposerviko, better known globally through the iconic “Zorba” dance.
“It is a great honour for us to present Greek culture to non-Greeks,” Manasis said, describing the experience as one of the most interactive and enjoyable in recent weeks.
The initiative itself was led by Tereschenko, who, despite her Russian background, has spent much of her life in Greece and sought to share that cultural connection with students.
‘Rhythms of Monash’ celebrates diversity
Later that day, Manasis and his troupe participated in the City of Monash’s annual Rhythms of Monash event, held at Clayton Theatre.
The free community showcase featured performances from a range of cultural groups, including African drumming, Chinese dance and Greek traditional routines, highlighting the diversity that defines the municipality.
Accompanied by dancers Zacharoula, Alkis, Xanthy and Maria, the group performed a series of dances from across Greece, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The event concluded with a spirited, all-in “Zorba” dance, with Monash Mayor Cr Stuart James joining participants and helping lead the glendi.
Sharing Greek culture beyond the diaspora
For Manasis, the day underscored the enduring appeal of Greek culture beyond its community roots.
Through music, movement and shared experience, both events demonstrated how tradition can serve as a bridge between cultures – particularly during occasions such as Harmony Week, which celebrate unity through diversity.
Whether in a school courtyard or on a community stage, the message remained the same: Greek culture continues to resonate, inspire and bring people together.
