Melbourne’s Greek women’s traditional dance group, The Arhontisses, recently marked a major milestone, celebrating 20 years of cultural preservation, community contribution, and sisterhood.
The Arhontisses perform voluntarily at nursing homes, community events, cultural celebrations, and Greek festivals such as the iconic Antipodes Festival in Melbourne.
Earlier in the month The Arhontisses hosted a special anniversary celebration at the Community Hall on Clyde Street in Thornbury, where their weekly dance classes are held every Tuesday evening from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
The event honoured the journey of the non-profit group since its inception, recognising the dedication of its founding members and the joy they continue to bring to the Greek and wider community. Darebin’s Deputy Mayor, Emily Dimitriadis, also joined members in cutting the anniversary cake and pledged her ongoing support for the group.
Formed two decades ago by a dynamic group of women passionate about Greek heritage, The Arhontisses was created to promote physical wellbeing, mental stimulation, and the preservation of Hellenic cultural traditions through dance. Over the years, the group has welcomed members from diverse backgrounds and now proudly reflects a multicultural spirit—united by a love for Greek dance, guided by an experienced dance instructor.
One of the founding members, Magda Arabatzi, fondly referred to as “the soul of the group,” has lovingly sewn all the traditional costumes for the members over the years, entirely voluntarily, a gesture that embodies the heart and generosity of the group.
