Mikis Theodorakis Τribute by the Greek National Opera

A year after the passing of Mikis Theodorakis, the life and work of the renowned composer (Zorbas, Serpico) and political figure is being celebrated. The Greek National Opera pays tribute to the work of the important composer with a number of concerts. 

24/09/2022: Mikis Theodorakis: A Trilogy, Greek National Opera Alternative Stage, 8.30 pm
Three iconic song cycles in memory of Theodorakis. The Mauthausen cycle, written and recorded between 1965-66 and based on the crushing lyrics by Iakovos Kambanellis, has become an international symbol of post-war humanism. The Deserters which is Theodorakis' first complete cycle of songs, written in the mid-1950s and recorded some years later in his own distinctive voice. Finally, the cycle Romancero Gitano which is based on Gypsy-themed songs by Federico García Lorca as translated by Nobelist Odysseus Elytis. This work was completed in early 1967, shortly before the beginning of the Greek military dictatorship.

02/10/2022: Symphony No. 2: The Song of the Earth, Greek National Opera, 6.30 pm
GNO’s orchestra and Children's Chorus will present this 1980s work which outlines Theodorakis’ traumatic experiences of war, exile and persecution. For the creation of this symphony, Theodorakis sourced material from two of his earlier works, Suite No. 1 (1957) and the ballet Antigone (1957-58).

05/10/2022: March of the Spirit and Songs by Mikis Theodorakis, Greek National Opera, 7.30 pm
Renowned singer and political activist Maria Farantouri will perform the March of Spirits, an artwork which aimed to send a clear message of opposition to the military junta of the time. During the second part of the concert, some of Theodorakis’ most popular songs will be performed by a large symphony orchestra. 

16/10/2022: Mikis Theodorakis: French and Greek Poets, Greek National Opera Alternative Stage, 7.30 pm
Just before his monumental oeuvre Epitaphios, during the late 50s, Theodorakis, already Paris-based at the time, set to music some of Paul Éluard’s poems. Although these works were soon withdrawn by the poet's heirs and only started to come to light 30 years later, the French influence is apparent. This concert will also feature compositions of French poems by other great composers such as Igor Stravinsky, Reynaldo Hahn and Kurt Weill. 

21 & 22/10/2022: Memories of a Little Girl, Greek National Opera Alternative Stage, 8.30 pm
In a combination of the composer's musical career and the autobiography of his daughter Margarita, this performance traces the settlement of the refugees of Asia Minor in the neighbourhood of Nea Smyrni, the “lost fatherland” and the horrid period of exile in Makronissos.