The works of composer, Mikis Theodorakis and Nobel Prize-winning poet, Odysseas Elytis will be celebrated in Axion Esti on Saturday May 11, 2024 at the City Recital Hall as part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney.
This extraordinary collaboration will showcase the immense talent of international vocalist Dimitris Basis, renowned Greek Australian conductor George Ellis, Chanter Basilios Psilacos, a 30-piece Choir, and narration by Greek Australian actor Tony Nikolakopoulos.
The focal point of the event is Odysseas Elytis’ landmark work, Axion Esti. Published in 1959, this poem was set to music by Mikis Theodorakis and quickly became a celebrated anthem. Combining suffering, passion, spiritual lessons, and poetic power, Axion Esti is widely regarded as Elytis’ masterpiece and won the National Book Award for Poetry in 1960.
Mikis Theodorakis, the acclaimed composer of the famous Zorba’s Dance, is Greece’s most celebrated composer. With more than 1,000 songs and song-cycles to his name, Theodorakis has become synonymous with the rich musical heritage of Greece. This event pays tribute to his legacy and showcases the timeless beauty of his masterful compositions.
As part of the Axion Esti concert, the audience will be treated to Theodorakis’ most famous melodies, including Ena To Helidoni (A Solitary Swallow) and Tis Dikeosinis Ilie (Sun of Justice). These captivating performances will be the Australian premiere of this special collaboration between the Sydney-based 30-piece Choir, a symphony orchestra, and an array of musicians performing on traditional Greek instruments.
This magnificent concert is an integral part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney in 2024, which celebrates the enduring presence of Greek culture in Australia.
Event details:
What: Axion Esti (‘It is Worthy’) Presented by the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW and the City Recital Hall
When: Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 8pm
Where: City Recital Hall, 2 Angel Pl, Sydney NSW 2000
Bookings: Call 02 8256 2222 or visit cityrecitalhall.com​
For more information on the program and to book tickets to selected events, please visit www.greekfestivalofsydney.com.au.
