On Saturday, May 23, well over 200 people attended the Brotherhood of Chalkidiki “Aristotelis” of NSW Annual Dance, held at The Grand Roxy in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney.
It was the association’s most well-attended event in at least 30 years and featured a huge turnout of young people, including countless children, teenagers and young adults in their 20s.
Over the past few years, the annual dance has continued to grow bigger and better, attracting more attendees and even more kefi each year.
To make the evening even more memorable, the committee organised a well-timed program, while guests enjoyed the venue’s ample and delicious food. Entertainment was provided by DJ D’Angelo Goutzios, whose family originates from Chalkidiki, with the dance floor packed all night until after midnight.
President Costa Dantos delivered a speech lasting just over five minutes, thanking attendees for helping the Brotherhood achieve a record turnout for the 21st century and contributing to its growth as one of the largest Greek associations in New South Wales, and perhaps Australia.
During the speech, several past presidents and families with roots from Chalkidiki were acknowledged, along with the Brotherhood’s growing calendar of annual events, which now totals five events each year.
The association’s history was also highlighted, noting its formal establishment in 1962 and its longstanding ties to Greeks from Chalkidiki across NSW, including members and supporters from Wollongong, Newcastle and Canberra, not only Sydney where the majority of members reside.
Following the speech, the Aristotelion Academy of Greek Traditional Dance further energised the hall with what many described as their best performance yet, showcasing dances and songs from across Macedonia, including Chalkidiki.
Dancing commenced immediately afterwards, led by a group of third and fourth-generation Greek Australians of Chalkidikian heritage. Within seconds, the dance floor was completely full as guests danced enthusiastically to upbeat Greek music for more than three hours.
Guests enjoyed Kalamatiana, Macedonian music and songs from Chalkidiki including “Milo Mou Kokkino,” “Maria S’ Agapo” and “Apano Stin Triantafyllia,” alongside favourites such as “Roza” and “S’ Anazito Sti Saloniki.” The night also featured traditional music including tsamika and tsiftetelia, as well as Greek pop and classic English hits from the 1980s.
The event has continued to generate strong praise from attendees, remembered as a night filled with great food, vibrant dancing, wonderful company and smiling faces throughout the venue.
The Brotherhood thanked everyone who attended, including members of the wider Greek community and community leaders who showed their support.
