Greeks and Philhellenes are preparing to embark on a Hellenic cultural journey this month, with the 2016 Odyssey Festival.
Celebrating its 11th year, the month-long event will once again be presented by the Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia Inc. (GOCSA), and the program, released on Friday, is both exciting and entertaining.
President of the GOCSA, Bill Gonis, says he is looking forward to another successful year, as the popular event passes its 10-year milestone with another unforgettable line-up.
“Following on from the success of our previous ten years as a prominent arts and cultural festival for all Hellenes and Philhellenes, this year’s Odyssey will once again begin at the heart of the Greek community, Olympic Hall, as it did last year,” he told Neos Kosmos.
He says the event is one of the most significant on Adelaide’s cultural calendar, as it is all about “continuing our proud traditions in involving and immersing ourselves, our friends and family in a snapshot of Hellenism”.
Commencing on 30 September, the Olympic Hall will be showcased as a multipurpose venue, hosting everything from exhibitions and lectures to theatrical productions, music nights, cultural events and more, all of which will be a celebration of this year’s theme ‘Customs and Traditions’.
Those who are particularly fond of cinema, and namely films by and about Greeks, are also in for a special treat. It has been announced that the Delphi Bank’s 23rd Greek Film Festival will be taking place as part of the Odyssey Festival, and is expected be kick off midway through the event’s program on 13 to 16 October.
“This is an opportunity for South Australia’s Greek community to share its wonderful, vibrant culture and traditions with the rest of the community,” says Mr Gonis.
Opening night is on Friday 30 September and will take place at Olympic Hall (288 Franklin Street, Adelaide, SA) from 6.30 pm. Events will run until October 29. For more information, visit the GOCSA’s website at www.gocsa.org.au