The Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia held their annual event Synapantema, last week with special guest of honour, Greek actor and orator Lazos Terzas.
Synapantema’s three-day program was filled with traditional Pontian music and food. On the Saturday, Mr Terzas, together with historian Dr Panayiotis Diamandis presented an insight into Pontic language, history and its connection to both ancient and Byzantine Greece. The presentation was done in both Greek and English and proved to be a success with all generations of Pontians present. The highlight of the event was the combined performances of Victoria’s Pontic Cultural and Educational Association “Akrites Tou Pontou” and NSW’s Pontic Cultural and Educational Association “Aitents” having been introduced by Mr Terzas with the lauded Pontic poem Pontos Astro Foteinon.
The traditional Pontic version of the Ancient Greek dance “Pyrrichios” was danced by the combined boys of the group to huge applause and honour to their ancestors.