The 43rd Greek Festival of Sydney will come to a close on Sunday, May 11, with a one-night-only orchestral event celebrating the timeless music of Greece’s cinematic golden age. Titled ‘Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema’, the concert will take place at 6.30pm in Verbruggen Hall at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

In what promises to be a conclusion to the Festival’s celebrated program, renowned conductor George Ellis will lead a full symphony orchestra, joined by standout vocalist Dioni Vertzayas, to present iconic Greek film songs from the 1940s through the 1970s — many of which were made famous by legendary actresses such as Aliki Vougiouklaki and Melina Mercouri.

“These ladies from the 20th century sang these songs and made them famous,” Ellis said. “We thought we would take these melodies, set them to orchestral arrangements, and present them in one moving concert.”

Personally orchestrated by Ellis for this event, the concert blends the lush sounds of a Western symphony orchestra with a traditional Greek ensemble featuring bouzoukia, piano, drums, and bass. The result, Ellis says, will be a rich and colourful soundscape unlike any previous presentation of these beloved works.

“It’s a completely new way of hearing these songs — with cello, viola, violins — like adding colour to a black-and-white film,” Ellis added.

“It’s going to be magical.”

Vocalist Dioni Vertzayas, said she is thrilled to be making her Sydney debut with this material. “Some of these songs I grew up listening to,” she mused.

“It’s an honour to interpret them in my own way and bring them to life for a new audience, especially alongside George and his exceptional orchestra.”

Vertzayas expressed particular excitement for singing powerful ballads by Tzeni Vanou, while acknowledging the creative challenge of approaching historically significant pieces such as “Αυτή η νύχτα μένει” (This Night Remains).

Ellis praised the Greek Festival of Sydney for its bold vision and commitment to cultural excellence.

“The Festival team are idea-makers and cultural champions. They dare to dream and then make it happen,” he said.

“Culture is priceless — and this concert is a shining example of that.”

Festival organisers anticipate a sell-out event and encourage early booking.

Τα Κινηματογραφικά: Songstresses of the Golden Age of Greek Cinema

When: Sunday, May 11, 2025 | 6:30 PM AEST

Where: Verbruggen Hall, Conservatorium of Music, Sydney

Bookings: Here