Prepare for a weekend of Greek pleasures as the Antipodes Festival and the Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour take over Melbourne and Sydney this weekend February 24 and 25. Neos Kosmos has devoted this print edition to the Greek festivals between pages 10 and 13.
Neos Kosmos includes interviews with the Cretan ensemble, siblings Xylourakia, who will perform at Antipodes, and Melbourne-based Greek rockers, the Smoking Figs, known for their eclectic sounds and original compositions on the human condition.
A little-known fact, the Xylourakia – siblings Apollonia, Adonis, and Nikos who will perform at Antipodes, are also the unapologetically jagged-edged punk-rock band Frenzee, who will do the rounds across Melbourne’s rock venues.
In Melbourne, Lonsdale Street will buzz with excitement as 90 pop-up stalls, enticing Greek food vendors, and thrilling competitions await.
Antipodes will include 700 performers across three stages, while Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour will also meet that challenge. The festivals will showcase traditional dances and contemporary music, including the iconic Melina Aslanidou, alongside local talents.
Sydney comes alive with the Greek Fest @ Darling Harbour, celebrating two decades of Greek heritage with music, dance, and culinary delights against the stunning backdrop of Tumbalong Park. Experience the magic of the Greek-Australian band IHO NYX and international sensation Melina Aslanidou headlining the musical program, promising a cultural extravaganza like no other.
Festival Hellenika in Adelaide kicked off this week with a co-promotion of the Adelaide Festival debut of the National Theatre of Greece’s production of Goodbye, Lindita. Hellenika fosters Hellenic links to the arts and celebrates Hellenic culture. It has a unique focus on looking at the breadth and complexity of Hellenism beyond Greek ethnicity and borders. Hellenika has grown in the last 30 years into a prominent presenter of Greek cultural events in Adelaide, from small, intimate presentations to annual concerts.
Whether indulging in Greek cuisine, marvelling at performances, or soaking in the atmosphere, the festivals across Australia welcome people from all walks of life to celebrate the rich Hellenic Australian heritage.
Take advantage of these events, and Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney will transform into thriving Greek metropolises, showcasing the best of Hellenic culture and tradition. A weekend of music and life!
