For those fortunate enough to have witnessed Yiannis Parios’ concert last Saturday night, they lived through an experience that will surely remain unforgettable. As he had promised, he gave his true fans the very best of himself.
It wasn’t simply a flawless appearance by such an accomplished and respected artist. It was a two-way street where he gave his all to an audience that missed him greatly, since his last appearance in Australia over 22 years ago.
The crowd witnessed an honest, warm, charming Parios full of passion for song, with an earnest willingness to engage with his fans. He seemed to reach everyone collectively as a group, but also to engage with every patron individually.
Last Saturday’s concert was a labour of love and witnessed by a mixed audience from all generations.
He sang it all: old, new, laika, nisiotika. He performed so much of his own work for which he has become so loved, but also honoured other greats such as Stellios Kazantzidis, Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hatzidakis by performing their songs as well. The great singer moved and excited his audience as only he can.
Before the end of the concert, he kneeled in front of his fans as if in prayer in a symbolic gesture in recognition of the admiration the Greek Australian audience have for him. Thank you, Yiannis Parios, you were truly magnificent.
