Elena K. Tsolakis, co-founding director of Kyriakos Tsolakis Architects (Cyprus and London based), is featured in the Royal Institute of British Architects latest ground-breaking new book ‘100 Women: Architects in Practice’ recognising the most influential female architects from around the globe.
This highly anticipated book launched in New York on February 8 and celebrates the most influential architects of our day and highlights the difference that exemplary architecture can have on the world around us.
Elena, alongside her architect brother and sister Nicodemos and Cassandra, have consciously focused their studio’s work on public and cultural buildings; those that, as she says, ‘can have the greatest positive impact.’
Several of her studio’s projects are in remote mountainous locations. As the book discusses by delving into Tsolakis’ National Star Observatory of Cyprus (Troodos Observatory), it is exemplary architecture that can act as a ‘gravitational pull’ to these often-forgotten regions.
Within urban environments, her work speaks to improving social equality, such as with the first purpose-built women’s shelter in Cyprus for SPAVO, a place which empowers abused women to rebuild their life. Human Wellbeing is an increasingly important exploration for the studio, with projects such as a culinary school, and the Charisma Wellness Resort in Mykonos becoming hubs for longevity and wellbeing.
This book shines a light on both Tsolakis’ and other female architects’ important contributions in a field traditionally dominated by men. Tsolakis’ inclusion in this prestigious compilation stands as a beacon of inspiration for women in leadership and the general public, showcasing the vital role women play in shaping our built environment for the better.
This recognition reaffirms that purposeful architecture is worth celebrating, as are those who have made it their life’s commitment to improve the world we live in, through the power of architecture.
Underwater archaeologists have announced the discovery of a significant find: a submerged marble frieze block off the coastline of Sicily, which according to experts belonged to the Temple of Zeus in ancient Akragas.
The Temple of Zeus, situated in the Valley of the Temples, served as a focal point of ancient Akragas (Agrigento), a city with numerous temples of historical importance.
According to heritagedaily.com, it was one of the largest Doric temples ever constructed, measuring 112 metres in length by 56 metres in width.
Historical accounts from the Ancient Greek historian, Diodorus Siculus, reveal that the temple construction remained unfinished, halted by the Carthaginian conquest of Akragas in 406 BC. The temple was eventually toppled by earthquakes and in the 18th century was quarried extensively to provide building materials for nearby settlements.
Photo: BCsicilia / facebook
The submerged marble block, measuring approximately 2 meters in length and 1.6 meters in height, was discovered by underwater archaeologists 300 meters from the Sicilian coastline, lying at a depth of 9 meters. It was rafted from Proconnesian marble originating from the quarries of Marmara Adası in Turkey.
On one side is a carved frieze depicting a prancing horse, which likely adorned the exterior tympanum facade of the temple structure. Horses, emblematic of power and strength, were a common motif in significant Ancient Greek architectural endeavors.
“The extraordinary discovery was immediately reported to the Superintendency of the Sea for the purpose of recovering the exceptional find, which was finally brought back to shore this morning,” a representative of BCsicilia mentioned to HeritageDaily.
Athens has launched its own Rare Disease list in Greek. Prior to this initiative, there was a notable absence of a comprehensive classification system for such conditions in the Greek language.
According to euractive.com, the newly introduced list serves as a meticulous archive cataloging every rare disease along with its sub-categories, including genetic mutations.
Considered a stepping stone for forming a precise epidemiological view of rare diseases in Greece, the Rare Diseases List, published by the Greek Health Ministry in January, aims to eventually enhance diagnosis and facilitate patients’ access to treatments, the President of the Hellenic Federation of Associations of Rare Diseases, Efstratios Chatzicharalambous, told Euractiv.
Previously, Greek legislation had acknowledged the European portal Orphanet for rare diseases and orphan drugs as the official database. The portal, a pan-European tool classifying rare diseases with special orphacodes, was launched in 2013 by the French Health Ministry.
However, Greece lacked a translated and detailed classification system for existing or emerging rare diseases in its registry, unlike most other EU Member States which maintain native language databases.
The newly released list represents a milestone in Greece’s approach to rare diseases, providing the most specific registration of such conditions to date.
Photo: Sora Shimazaki
The list includes “much more accurate data on them since a variety of orphacodes are now recorded according to the genetic mutations each disease has undergone over the years,” the President of Rare Diseases Federation explained to Euractiv.
“It is the foundation for significant future steps regarding rare diseases,” Chatzicharalambous highlighted.
“The diagnosis can now be valid and more accurate,” doctors will have access to the exact Greek name of a patient’s rare disease (orphacode) based on its specific characteristics presented by the patient, Chatzicharalambous he added.
Alia, Canberra’s newest Greek restaurant, opens up on 6 March and promises to transport diners to a realm of culinary delight and family warmth.
According to, hercanberra.com, the restaurant is designed drawing inspiration from Nik Bulum’s childhood memories of festive feasts. The creative force behind Lonsdale Street aims to recreate the anticipation and joy of those gatherings in Alia’s ambiance and cuisine.
The former Zoo Bar site on London Circuit has undergone a remarkable transformation into a temple of Greek gastronomy.
“Think olive oil, lemon, oregano, bread, fish, vegetables and olives. Nothing complicated or staged but just really simple, beautiful, delicious Greek flavours and techniques from our grandparents,” said Nik to hercanberra.com.
Led by Chef John Santos, Alia’s kitchen promises a menu brimming with classic Greek dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. From whole grilled flathead and grilled watermelon salad to Saganaki baked cheese and Spanakopita pie, each dish reflects Nik’s Greek heritage and his appreciation for the healthful qualities of Mediterranean cuisine.
Photo: hercanberra.com.au
And how could it be a Greek restaurant without offering a Chicken Souvlaki with pita, tzatziki, and tirokafteri, or a slow-cooked Lamb Gyros served on flat bread with garlic sauce, onion, and cucumber?
Desserts are the classics of Tiramisu or a Baklava cheesecake.
The restaurant is a bit “temple-like” according to Nik—restrained to a colour scheme of warm whites, creams and beige, with marble tables, velvet upholstery and linen curtains dividing the space.
“Really, it’s all about relaxing over a huge, delicious meal in an elevated setting,” said Nik.
Olympia Thea Nelson, a PhD candidate in the Department of Modern Greek & Byzantine Studies at the University of Sydney, will present a lecture entitled “Why Byzantium? The Contemporary Relevance,” on Thursday 7 March, at 7:00 pm.
Held at the Mezzanine Level of The Greek Centre on 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, this lecture promises to unravel the enduring mystery and allure of Byzantine culture in today’s world.
In this lecture, Olympia Thea Nelson will delve into the intricate relationship between modern society and the Byzantine legacy. Exploring themes of aesthetic beauty, cultural influence, and religious tradition, Nelson will shed light on why Byzantium continues to captivate and inspire contemporary audiences, particularly within the Greek community.
Drawing from her extensive research and expertise, Nelson will offer insights into the timeless appeal of Byzantine art, architecture, and poetry, transcending its religious origins to resonate with audiences of diverse backgrounds. From its historical significance to its relevance in today’s world, Nelson will examine how Byzantium shapes our understanding of identity, heritage, and cultural legacy.
Admission to this interesting lecture is free, and all are invited to attend.
Event Details:
When: Thursday 7 March, 7:00 pm
Where: Level 12, The Greek Centre, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
The proposal of the Hellenic Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage (ELLET) to the Europa Nostra federation regarding endangered monuments and cultural heritage sites sheds light on the concerning deterioration of the distinctive landscape and identity of the Cycladic islands in the Aegean Sea.
According to ekathimerini.com, the islands of Sifnos, Serifos, and Folegandros serve as poignant examples of the significant transformations witnessed in the Cyclades region in recent times.
The proposal submitted by ELLET for Europa Nostra’s 7 Most Endangered Program 2024 concerns all of the Cyclades, which, it stressed, are facing a multitude of challenges posed by the surge in tourism development and uncontrolled construction.
Photo: sifnos.gr
“Despite the economic growth achieved, a number of environmental, cultural and social issues are arising, such as the degradation of natural resources, the destruction of cultural heritage, water scarcity, waste management problems and socioeconomic inequalities,” the nomination document stated.
“The islands are at risk of losing their authentic character as rapid tourism development threatens to overshadow their intrinsic beauty,” it added.
ELLET noted that small island destinations of the Cyclades in particular are under considerable pressure from overtourism, in terms of the strain on infrastructure and increasing demand for hospitality.
It stressed that the demand for buildings outside the boundaries of settlements is very high and construction is unprecedented.
Nearly five decades ago, archaeologists brought to light a remarkable find while excavating the ancient settlement of Vergina in northern Greece. Within three royal tombs dating back to the 4th century BC, they discovered remains believed to belong to the family of Alexander the Great.
At the time, they were deemed to be the great warrior’s father, son and elder half brother. But scientists suggest the father and the half brother have been caught up in a case of mistaken identity.
According to dailymail.co.uk, in a groundbreaking study led by Antonios Bartsiokas, a professor of anthropology at the Democritus University of Thrace in Greece, experts now ‘conclusively’ reveal that the skeleton long identified as belonging to the half brother is in fact the father, and vice versa.
‘The skeletons studied are among the most historically important in Europe,’ Professor Bartsiokas and colleagues say.
While the resting place of Alexander the Great is unknown, researchers discovered three tombs at Vergina in 1977 – referred to as tombs I, II and III.
At the time, archeologists proposed they contained the remains of Alexander the Great’s father (Philip II), his son (Alexander IV) and his half-brother (Philip III of Macedon).
Most scholars agree that Tomb III belongs to Alexander IV, the teenage son of Alexander the Great, but ‘strenuous debate’ over the other two tombs ‘continues unabated’.
Researchers studied X-rays of the skeletons and referred to ancient writings about each figure, together with their anatomical characteristics and any physical issues.
They conclusively identified Tomb I as containing Alexander the Great’s father and Tomb II to contain Philip III of Macedon – not the other way around as previously assumed.
Within Tomb I lie the remains of a woman and an infant, identified by researchers as Cleopatra, the young wife of Philip II, and their newborn child. Professor Bartsiokas acknowledges that this detail should have been a decisive clue, yet scholars initially misidentified her.
Crucially, documents reveal Philip II of Macedon suffered a severe traumatic injury to the left knee, a detail supported by skeletal evidence found within the tomb.
‘A knee fusion was found in the male skeleton of Tomb I consistent with the historic evidence of the lameness of King Philip II,’ the new study points out.
Gundagai’s famous Niagara Café has undergone a superb restoration of its classic American Art Deco features, winning a NSW Heritage Award in the process.
In celebration, its new custodians, Luke Walton and Kym Fraser, have organised two special events featuring chef David Tsirekas and Greek café historians Effy Alexakis and Leonard Janiszewski: a Greek Street Food event on Friday 23 February and a Greek Feast on Saturday 24 February.
Alexakis and Janiszewski will provide a casual historical introduction during the first event and a detailed talk during the second.
There are 2 seating sessions available, buy your tickets by calling (02) 9060 5733.
February 24 & 25: 20 Years Greek Fest Darling Harbour
Mark your calendars for this extraordinary evening of music, culture, and celebration! The Greek Fest at Darling Harbour is making a spectacular comeback on February 24th and 25th.
Live music, Dance performances, Greek food & drink, Merchandise stalls Children activities and more…
Secure your spot and be part of this iconic celebration of the Greek Fest’s two-decade legacy!
Where: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
Dates and times: 24th Feb 3pm –10pm & 25 Feb 10am –10pm.
Featuring:
IHO NYX under the Darling Stars – Saturday, 24th Feb @ 7:00 pm.
Melina Aslanidou Live on Stage – Sunday, 25th Feb @ 7:00 pm.
Feb 9 & March 1: Agapi & Other Kinds Of Love by Luka Lesson
The Ancient Greek types of love are revealed via timeless love stories told in rap and spoken word with live musicians. Based on Plato’s Symposium, Luka Lesson’s Agapi & Other Kinds of Love begins with Socrates telling his friends everything he learned from the mysterious Diotima.
The gods then guide us through time and space to arrive in modern Athens, where reincarnations of ancient lovers fall in love (again) amidst a riot. We visit different kinds of love before reaching the ultimate: Agapi.
Self-love, erotic love and more collide with statues of Aphrodite, Molotov cocktails and the Parthenon’s steps.
Equal parts rap concert, poetic musical & classical history lesson, this production shows us how love prevails despite everything throughout the ages.
Where: Riverside Theatres, Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta NSW 2150.
Dates and times: 29th Feb 7pm –8:20pm & 1 March 7pm –8:20pm.
March1, 2 & 3: Opou GIS kai ‘PATRIS’
‘Opou GIS kai PATRIS’ – a Theatrical Marvel by Konstantinos Kalymnios, Direct from Greece with Limited 4-Show Engagement.
A theatrical comedy, ‘Opou GIS kai PATRIS’written by the esteemed lawyer and author Konstantinos Kalymnios. This engaging production will be staged at the Greek Theatre – Mandouridion in Marrickville, featuring the talented duo Stamatis Tzelepis and Elena Tsefala, for only four performances between 1st and 3rd of March 2024.
This thought-provoking play delves into the essence of the first generation of immigrants, exploring the gradual fading of their unique way of life over time. Konstantinos Kalymnios, the playwright, was inspired by the disappearing customs and behavioral codes of those who laid the foundations of the Greek community. The story is a heartfelt attempt to preserve the distinctive dialect and traditions of his grandparents’ micro-community in Essendon, Moonee Ponds, and Ascot Vale in Victoria.
The play features the Epirotic dialect, with elements from various parts of Greece, providing a rich linguistic and cultural experience for the audience.
The performance is not only a portrayal of the migrant experience but also includes segments commenting on the current situation in Greece from various perspectives—historical and beyond. In essence, ‘Opou GIS kai PATRIS’ is a historical retrospective, exploring common points that define us throughout time and, of course, offering a generous dose of humor.
The show will be performed in Greek with English surtitles.
Where: The Greek Theatre – Mantouridion, Building 36, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 1st & 2nd March 7:30pm, 3rd March 4:30pm & 3rd March 7pm.
March 3:Dionysios Solomos Awards
This prestigious event is held to recognise the highest-ranking Greek language students in NSW in the presence of family, friends and distinguished guests. Awards will be presented to the top-ranking students in Modern and Classical Greek.
This awards ceremony is proudly presented in partnership with the University of Sydney.
The event will be presented in both English and Greek, and is free, with no bookings required!
Where: Maclaurin Hall, Manning Road, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006.
Dates and times: 3rd March at 4pm.
March 6-19:Face Off: Portraits
A photographic exhibition by Effy Alexakis and Yannis Dramitinos.
Photographers Effy Alexakis and Yannis Dramitinos expose not only their subjects, but also themselves and the preconceived ideas of viewers in stunning portraits of the celebrated, the familiar and the previously unknown – the psychological interplay between photographer, subject and viewer is inescapable.
Capturing the humour, determination, sadness, tragedy, success, the lived experiences of their subjects, Alexakis and Dramitinos bring their personal interpretive eye into play, confronting their subjects and those viewing the portraits to contemplate their own sense of “self”.
The official opening for the free event will be on Sat 9 March @ 6pm. All are welcome, no bookings required!
Where: Luna Studio Art Gallery. 465 King Street, Newton, NSW 2042.
Dates and times: 6th to 14th and 17th to 19th March at 12pm – 6pm, Friday 15th & Saturday 16th March at 12pm – 10pm.
March 8:Celebrating International Women’s Day
Panel discussion & inaugural award to The Greek Herald Woman of the Year.
To celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, the Greek Festival of Sydney supported by The Greek Herald, will honour multigenerational Greek women making significant contributions to multicultural communities in Australia and globally. The event, themed “Inspire Inclusion” for IWD 2024, offers a dynamic panel discussion featuring:
• Andriana Simos: Panel Moderator & Digital Editor at The Greek Herald • Jenny Zagas: Principal at Lucas Gardens School & Disability Advocate. • Anais Menounos: Sydney lawyer & Co-founder of the St Nicholas Mission Academy in Ghana, Africa. • Marika Kontellis: Director at Zakumi Consulting, CEO at Inner Sydney Voice, CEO at Council on the Ageing NSW. • Yiana Roumeliotis: Community Engagement Officer at the Addison Road Community Organisation.
The event will also unveil The Greek Herald Woman of the Year award presented by The Greek Festival of Sydney, recognising unsung Greek heroines across Australia. Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Prince Henry Centre, 2 Coast Hospital Rd, Little Bay.
Dates and times: 8th March at 6:30pm.
March 13: Greek Language Writers’ Festival
Greek Language Books’ Festival.
The event showcases two books in Greek language:
Moral Continuum – Spacetime – Sisyphus and Meropi, the fifth book in a series by the poet Theodoros Dalmaris, highlights the complexity and creativity of Nature independently of humanity.
Portraits of Women – by Dina Tourvas – is a bilingual album with 70 portraits of Greek women from Sydney and Greece, as well as historical women activists known for their work for humanity.
Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Greek Community Club, 206-210 Lakemba ST, Lakemba.
Dates and times: 13th March at 6pm.
March 15: Echoes of freedom: A tribute to the songs of the struggle
Music performance by Manolis Androulidakis.
Songs and instrumental compositions that have formed the soundtrack of struggles for freedom, democracy, and social justice are interpreted with a profound understanding of their essence, showcasing guitar craftsmanship and an interpretative approach that alternates between dynamic and lyrical styles.
The musical genius of Theodorakis, Leontis, Xarhakos, Savvopoulos, Loizos and other iconic composers breathed life into the verses of superb songwriters and poets. These verses, with the voices of Nikos Xylouris, Maria Farantouri, Maria Dimitriadi and others became the voices of challenging times, yet their resonance is timeless.
Where: Greek Community Club, 206-210 Lakemba St, Lakemba.
Dates and times: 15th March at 7pm.
March 17: Greek Music On Six Strings
Premiere in Sydney: ‘Greek Music on Six Strings’ a captivating Acoustic Music Recital Concert by the most prominent virtuosos of the classical guitar, Manolis Androulidakis Directly from Greece.
The Greek Festival of Sydney proudly announces the eagerly awaited performance of the esteemed Greek musician, composer Manolis Androulidakis, live at the Verbrugghen Hall of the Conservatorium of Music on Sunday 17 March 2024, at 5:00 pm.
Directly from the heart of Greece, composer Manolis Androulidakis is set to captivate audiences with his virtuosity on the six strings, presenting an exceptional acoustic music recital concert. This one-of-a-kind event promises an evening of cultural celebration, spotlighting the rich heritage and musical traditions of Greece.
Renowned as a classical guitar virtuoso and composer, composer Manolis Androulidakis unveils a groundbreaking presents a special project with works by Greek composers adapted to the classical guitar. He presents an alternative guitar that aims to trick the ear of the listener, creating the illusion that he is listening to two guitars, a bouzouki or even a larger music ensemble.
Starting with his personal album “Myrtia” (2016), the official international release of Mikis Theodorakis for solo guitar, the collection “Greek Cinema Music for Classical Guitar” (2019) and his newest album “Anthology for Guitar” (2021), he presents a heretical repertoire with moments of exceptional craftsmanship from Zorbas’ dance to the Greek cinema themes – with worldwide tunes of Greek composers to the inconceivable solos of Chiotis and the music of Savvopoulos, Loizos, Xarchakos, Zambetas, Leontis and Peridis.
Manolis Androulidakis is among the greatest Greek musicians – hence was chosen to record a CD for the series “Famous Greek Soloists” (FM Records 2016.) He is renowned for the use of particular guitar techniques, such as tremolo–apoyando and pulgar tremolo. With sophisticated taste, he comprehends as a performer how to permeate into the essence of the compositions, displaying his exemplary skills with rare coherence and a perfect executive style.
Where: Verbrugghen Hall of the Conservatorium of Music, Sydney, NSW.
Dates and times: 17th March at 5pm.
March 21: Is There A Future For Modern Greek In Australia?
Talk and discussion with Professor Joseph Lo Bianco.
Like many other languages in Australia, Modern Greek is in crisis. Some university departments have closed, HSC numbers have plummeted, and Greek is used less frequently in everyday life. How can we secure a future for Greek language and culture in this country?
This issue will be addressed by Professor Joseph Lo Bianco, author of the National Policy on Languages (1987), and of the book Pharos: The Vitality and Presence of Modern Greek in Contemporary Australia (ACER Press, Melbourne 2021), the product of research commissioned in 2018 by the Modern Greek Teachers’ Association of Victoria. His brief talk will be followed by questions and discussion.
MC: Themis Kallos, Executive Producer, Greek Language Programme, SBS Radio. Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Marrickville Library and Pavilion, 313 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 21st March at 6pm.
March 24: A Tribute to Stavros Kougioumtzis by Irene Vacondios & Sotiris Procopiou
Timeless Songs of Stavros Kougioumtzis.
From the 1960s through to the nineties, Kougioumtzis wrote timeless classics for Greece’s most prominent vocal artists; Dalaras, Alexiou, Vissi, Mpithikotsis, Moscholiou, Parios, Mitropanos and more.
He also collaborated with poets and lyricists; Virvos, Tsotou, Papadopoulos and Eleutheriou, transforming generations through a musical legacy of wealth.
Where: The Great Club, Marrickville, NSW.
Dates and times: Sunday, 24th March at 7pm.
April 3:Nikos Kazantzakis in Australia! A Vision and a Tribute
Panel discussion and book launch.
This event combines a discussion of Nikos Kazantzakis’s relevance to twenty-first century Australia with a presentation of writings by Australian academics inspired by Kazantzakis’s oeuvre and with some live Cretan music.
Dr Vassilis Adrahtas has put together a second collective volume on behalf of the Sydney Branch of the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis and engages in a roundtable discussion, coordinated by Themis Kallos, with Dr Alfred Vincent and Dr Maria Zarimis.
Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Marrickville Library and Pavilion, 313 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 3rd April at 6:30pm.
April 7:From Imbros Over the Sea
Photographic Exhibition & Lecture.
Curated by historian Jim Claven for the Imvrians’ Society of Melbourne, this photographic exhibition commemorates the role of the Northern Aegean Island of Imbros (Imvros) in the Gallipoli campaign.
Imbros’ role and the island’s connection to Australia and the Anzac story is told through photographs from the time, from archives in Australia and the United Kingdom, placed in historical context and further illustrated by photographs from today.
The organisers hope that this exhibition will vividly bring to life this important era in the history of Imbros and Australia.
Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Prince Henry Centre, 2 Coast Hospital Rd, Little Bay.
Dates and times: 7th April at 4pm.
April 10:Wisdom, and the Rise of Intelligent Machines
Play by Edward Spence.
The event will include a talk by Dr Edward H. Spence, followed by a performance of the play Logos Unbound and discussion with the audience, on how Greek philosophy, including Platonic and Stoic, can help us to better understand and evaluate the place of wisdom in our lives, as well as the impact that AI agents such as ChatGPT, Bard, and Pi have on our wellbeing.
Although scary smart and knowledgeable, can AI Machines acquire wisdom? Can they really be as wise as Socrates?
Where: Addison Road Community Centre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 10th April at 7:30pm.
April 12: Karagiozis Live
Theatrical Comedy, directed by Stavros Economidis.
Musical Director: Dimitris Fotiadis| Production Manager: Evelyn Tsavalas.
The Folkloric Greek Shadow puppet Karagiozis and his troop break break through the shadow barrier and come to life. Greek with English surtitles.
Tickets: $30 Adults | $30 Group | Kids under 12y.o. $15. Buy tickets by calling 0413 989 007.
Where: Addison Road Community Centre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 12th April, 13th April at 7:30pm, 14th April at 5pm, 19th April, 20th April at 7:30pm, 21st April at 5:00pm, 26th & 27th April at 7:30pm, 28th April at 5pm.
April 14: 50 years of the Department of Modern Greek in Sydney University
University Talk.
Established with a generous donation from Sir Nicolas Laurantus, the Discipline of Modern Greek at the University of Sydney celebrates this year 50 years of continuous presence in the tertiary sector in Australia.
In this event, academics and students recall the history of the discipline, celebrate its past and present achievements in teaching and research, acknowledge the support of the Greek Community, and look forward to its future.
Free tickets, bookings essential.
Where: Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, University Of Sydney, Camperdown.
Dates and times: 14th April at 9am.
April 15: Mythos: Ancient Greek Myths
A school holiday children’s workshop.
Explore the myths of ancient Greece this school holidays with archaeologists and ancient historians from the Chau Chak Wing Museum as we take you on a journey through the collection of vases, statues and other works of art of ancient Greece.
Throughout the workshops, you’ll be able to:
• Handle ancient Greek artefacts and discover how archaeologists learn about the past. • Hear ancient mythological stories of gods, goddess and heroes. • Make your own ferocious monster. • Help decorate an ancient Greek vase with your favourite mythological scene. • Explore the museum for ancient heroes, goddesses and gods.
These activities are perfect for children aged 6-12. Parents/guardians are required to stay with children throughout the session.
Tickets: Adults – free, Children – $15 each with registration.
Where: Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, University Of Sydney, Camperdown.
Dates and times: April 15th to 19th from 10am-12pm.
April 18: Lord Byron & Greece
Talk by Professor Mark Byron & Professor Vrasidas Karalis.
The Greek Festival of Sydney in collaboration with the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney will celebrate the life and work of Lord Byron on the 200th anniversary of his death (19 April 1824).
Lord Byron is well known globally as the poet who came to the aid of the Greek nation in a time of acute need, contributing to the effort to defeat the Ottomans and establish independence.
This intimate bond between poet and nation extends to Byron’s poetry, as well as to its subsequent reception and influence upon Greek literature. This talk sketches out a brief account of this bond towards defining what it means for Byron to be considered a “Greek poet”.
An exhibition that transcends time, celebrating the enduring influence of Greek heritage on our contemporary landscape. The artwork of Herk Alexander invites us on a profound journey into the realm of classical aesthetics, celebrating the idealised human form through evocative narratives in Greek mythology.
Alexander masterfully illuminates the timeless essence of classical antiquity with contemporary relevance. His drawings radiate the visual splendour of Greek ideals, infused with extraordinary detail and vitality through his distinctive style.
“Muse” provides a remarkable experience through the transformative influence of art, continuing to captivate the human imagination while celebrating the ongoing relevance and profound influence of Greek heritage in today’s world.
Free event, no bookings required (apart from Mondays, by appointment only). Phone (02) 9090 2540.
Dates and times: 19th April at 7pm, 20th April to 27th April at 11am-4pm.
April 21: Cats and the Canary
An evening of Greek Swing with Cats and the Canary, in Greek.
Cats and the Canary bring a truly unique experience to Australia’s music scene, standing out as the first and only band to introduce Greek Swing.
Their performances are a heartfelt tribute to Greece’s most prolific composers, where cherished melodies of the past undergo a captivating transformation. With a blend of Tsitsanis, Chiotis, Hadjidakis, and the occasional tsifteteli or traditional smyrneika, they seamlessly fuse these treasures with the lively essence of swing, jazz, and even Latin rhythms.
They have performed in various festivals (Brunswick Music Festival, Antipodes festival etc), in Melbourne and Sydney and have also sold out several headline gigs in Melbourne (Toff in Town, The Workers Club etc).
Where: The Factory Theatre, 105 Victoria Road, Marrickville.
Dates and times: 21st April at 7pm.
April 28: 1st Greek Youth Creative Arts Competition
Awards Ceremony.
As an integral part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney an exciting youth project has been announced; the 1st Greek Youth Creative Arts Competition. The competition, an extraordinary platform for burgeoning talents to shine, will commence between December 2023 – March 2024 in Arts, Writing & Music with submissions in 3 different age categories (12-15, 16-18, 19-24 Y.O.).
All Greek and Greek-at-heart Youth of NSW are urged to submit their artwork by 15th March 2024. The awards ceremony of the 1st Greek Youth Creative Arts Competition will take place at Chau Chak Museum.
Free tickets, bookings essential. Performed in English and Greek.
Where: Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, University Of Sydney, Camperdown.
Dates and times: 28th April at 2pm.
May 11: AXION ESTI (WORTHY IT IS)
Distinguished composer and Nobel Prize-winning poet celebrated by 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney at City Recital Hall.
The works of composer, Mikis Theodorakis and Nobel Prize-winning poet, Odysseas Elytis will be celebrated in Axion Esti on Saturday 11 May 2024, 8pm at the City Recital Hall as part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney.
This incredible collaboration showcases the talent of international vocalist Dimitris Basis, renowned Greek Australian conductor George Ellis, Chantor George Karantonis, a 30-piece Choir, and narration by Greek Australian actor Tony Nikolakopoulos.
Odysseas Elytis’ (1911- 1996) landmark work, Axion Esti (1959) was set to music by Mikis Theodorakis and became a widely-celebrated anthem. Combining suffering and passion, spiritual lessons and poetic power, Axion Esti – widely held to be Elytis’ masterpiece – won the National Book Award for Poetry in 1960.
Mikis Theodorakis – composer of the legendary Zorba’s Dance – is Greece’s most celebrated composer. He has written more than 1,000 songs and song-cycles whose melodies have become intrinsically linked with the heritage of Greek music. This unique event honours his legacy and celebrates the sheer musical beauty and timelessness of his masterwork compositions.
As part of the Axion Esti concert, Theodorakis’ most famous melodies including Ena To Helidoni (A Solitary Swallow) and Tis Dikeosinis Ilie (Sun of Justice) will be performed as an Australian premiere in a special collaboration between Sydney based 30-piece Choir, a symphony orchestra and an array of musicians performing on traditional Greek instruments.
Don’t miss this magnificent concert as part of the 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney 2024, celebrating the enduring presence of Greek culture in Australia.
Rare photos from the archive of the Greek Cultural Centre in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, document the lives of Greek political refugees who lived for decades in the USSR.
They settled in 14 “Greek towns” and by the 1970s numbered 35,000 individuals. Most returned to Greece after political amnesty was granted in 1981, while some joined relatives in Australia, Canada and the US. Costas Politis, President of the Greek Cultural Centre in Tashkent, will speak about the stories of the Greek political refugees in Central Asia and about the Centre’s current activities. He will be in discussion with Dr Helen Vatsikopoulos during the Greek Australian Writer’s Festival on Sunday 19 May.
Official Opening Event 6:30 pm Tue 14th May. All welcome. Free, no bookings required. Delivered in English and Greek.
Dates and times: 14th May at 6:30pm, 15th, 16th May at 12pm – 6pm, 17th and 18th May at 12pm – 10pm, 19th May at 12pm – 6pm.
May 14:The Sacred Tree: Olive Tasting Event
Talk & Tasting.
According to mythology, the olive was a divine gift. “I will give you a tree”, said the goddess Athena, striking the rock of the Acropolis of Athens with her spear. An olive tree sprung up. “Its fruit will feed you, its leaves will give you shade, and its wood will provide fuel”.
As a result the olive tree has been sacrosanct for Greeks since ancient times, it is a symbol of peace, wisdom and triumph.
Join us for a short presentation on the important history of the olive and its role in archaeology and history across the Mediterranean by Dr Tamara Lewit (The University of Melbourne), and a discussion by the Trade Commissioner for Greece in Australia, Chrysa Prokopaki, on the olive in modern Greece’s economy, culture and identity.
Guests are then invited to sample olives and olive produce in a tasting event.
Where: Nelson Meers Foundation Auditorium, Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, University Of Sydney, Camperdown.
Dates and times: 14th May at 6:30pm, 16th May at 6pm to 8pm.
May 19: Greek Australian Writers’ Festival
Presented by the Greek Festival of Sydney and UTS Journalism and Writing Directed by Dr Helen Vatsikopoulos, Professional Fellow UTS.
The 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney is hosting the Festival of Greek-Australian Writers to showcase books and authors telling Greek stories.
This festival will launch new anthologies, explore genealogy, Greeks and Australians in war, mythology, Greek-Australian identity in the global village, showcase visual storytelling and will honour the late Antigone Kefala one of the most important contemporary Greek-Australian writers.
The 45-minute sessions will include questions from the audience. Books will be on sale and authors available for signings.
Where: Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, University Of Technology Sydney, 14-28 Ultimo Road, Sydney, Entry via Mary Ann Street.
Dates and times: 19th May at 10am to 5pm.
May 26: Greek Fest @ Brighton-Le-Sands
Brighton-Le-Sands.
Greek food & drinks, live music, and dance performances.
Dates and times: 26th May from 9am.
June 4:Music From The Heart
The 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney with the Newtown Performing Arts present Dimitris Basis concert ‘FROM THE HEART’.
The acclaimed international singer and former The Voice of Greece judge will be performing on Saturday, February 24 at the Antipodes Festival.
She is most known for her popular Greek pop songs including ‘To Lathos,’ ‘De Vazeis Mialo,’ ‘Nero kai Homa’ and ‘I Efhi.’
Aslanidou spoke to The Greek Heraldahead of her performance, and said the Antipodes Festival would be her first ever Greek festival event here in Australia.
“People should expect a celebration of joy,” Melina said. “I’m going to be singing all the songs that we all know and love. I feel really good and very emotional.”
The Greek singer said she has visited Australia many times, with the first time being 17-18 years ago.
“It’s very beautiful here in Australia,” Melina said.
“The Greek community here is also beautiful, and congratulations to you all for what you do and what you have. You are keeping Greece alive.
“It’s so nice to see that third and fourth generation Greeks are learning our language, it is so important. Well done and congratulations to all the parents here who contribute to make this happen.”
Aslanidou said she was very happy to have gained the opportunity to perform at the Antipodes Festival.
Melina Aslanidou.
“I am so happy,” the singer said.
“This [the festival] is going to be a celebration of joy and love for our beautiful country, Greece.
“I’ve experienced something similar [in terms of Greek festivals] in Canada, but I’m so happy and lucky that I get to be in Australia, perform and be a part of this festival.”
Aslanidou will also take the stage at the Greek Fest at Darling Harbour in Sydney for the 20th-anniversary edition event on Sunday, February 25.
The 42nd Greek Festival of Sydney was officially launched on Thursday, February 22 with a three-course dinner event at The Grand Roxy in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney.
This year’s program involves more than 30 scheduled events such as festivals, book launches and music concerts which are set to showcase Greek history, culture and music. The Festival is an initiative of the Greek Orthodox Community of New South Wales (GOCNSW).
During the launch on Thursday, more than 100 distinguished guests and Greek community leaders attended and were given an insight into the Festival’s program for the next 15 weeks from February to June.
All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
Official guests included, but are not limited to, Courtney Houssos MLC; Trade Commissioner of Greece in Australia, Chrysa Prokopaki; First Secretary for Public Diplomacy at the Consulate of Greece in Sydney, Anastasia Christofilopoulou; Waverley Council Mayor Paula Masselos; and Randwick City Councillor Alexandra Luxford; as well as many business leaders and representatives from local Greek associations.
Once everyone was seated, emcee Artemis Theodoris Papoutsis welcomed guests to the launch and read out a letter by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley, Governor of New South Wales.
Artemis Theodoris Papoutsis (left) was emcee on the night.
In her message, Ms Beazley congratulated the Greek Festival of Sydney for their promotion of the Greek community, its culture and history.
“Since its inception more than four decades ago, the Greek Festival of Sydney has grown to become an iconic and much loved celebration by your community in our wonderful multicultural city,” she wrote.
“Showcasing Greek culture in all its vibrance, the Festival’s annual program of events, including street fairs, concerts, theatre and dance performances, and exhibitions, has enriched generations of locals and visitors alike.”
This reading was followed by a number of speeches from the President of GOCNSW, Harry Danalis; the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis; the NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper MP; Liberal Member for Miranda, Eleni Petinos MP; Bayside Council Mayor Bill Saravinovski; Honorary Associate in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Sydney, Edward Spence; and Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris.
In his speech, Mr Danalis spoke about the aims of the Greek Festival of Sydney and how it can attract the next generation.
“The cultural events that we present each year… are aimed at promoting our culture to the Greek community and to the wider Australian community and in that way, not only preserving our culture and language, but also bringing together the younger generation… to be able to appreciate their heritage and that of their parents and grandparents,” he said.
Harry Danalis.Consul General Ioannis Mallikourtis.
The Consul General of Greece spoke next and made reference to Ms Karteris’ recent interview with The Greek Herald and her comment that one challenge she faces as Festival Chair is to ensure the program of events remain relevant with the changing times.
Mr Mallikourtis said the Greek diaspora today face two main challenges around maintaining the Greek language and engaging the younger generation, but added that the Greek Festival of Sydney is “making a great effort to address” these challenges.
“The Festival is an instrument to promote Greek culture and to pass on to the younger generation the values and the ideals of what it means to be Greek,” he said.
“Greek culture, unfortunately, is sometimes portrayed in a stereotypical manner. I think the Festival tries to hit the stereotype and to go beyond.”
Minister Kamper spoke next and said he was “really proud” the NSW Government were able to meet their pre-election commitment of investing $220,000 a year over the next four years to support the Greek Festival of Sydney. He also said he’s excited the Greek Fest is returning to “where it belongs” at Brighton-Le-Sands this year.
Steve Kamper MPEleni Petinos MP
Ms Petinos MP thanked the Festival organisers for putting the event together and said it’s a great opportunity to “celebrate our heritage and beliefs.”
Mayor Saravinovski spoke about the Greek Fest at Brighton-Le-Sands and echoed Minister Kamper’s sentiments on the event.
“I’m excited because the Greek Fest is coming back to Bayside where it should always remain,” the Mayor said.
Edward SpenceBayside Mayor Bill Saravinovski
Mr Spence spoke as a representative of the artists at the event, giving a philosophical and eye-opening view of the Greek Festival of Sydney.
Ms Karteris finished off the official speeches with one of her own, thanking the official guests, festival artists and sponsors for their presence and encouraging everyone to enjoy the program of events scheduled for this year.
Chair of the Greek Festival of Sydney, Nia Karteris.
“Let’s not forget where the Greek Festival started 42 years ago… It started in Addison Road Community Centre, went to Campbell Oval for many successful years, then it went to Bay Street and now it’s at Darling Harbour. We respect where it started. We respect where it was. We respect where it is and we will always respect where it will go into the future,” she said.
At the conclusion of these speeches, awards were given to festival and media sponsors as a thank you for their support.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.
