The Orpheus Hellenic Folklore Society recently made its
third trip to Greece since its inception in 1989. This summer, approximately
two hundred Orpheus members and their families visited the Peloponnese,
specifically the city of Kalamata. Highlights included three successful
dance and choral performances, meetings and workshops with local officials
and dance groups, as well as several excursions around the Kalamata
vicinity.
Accompanying the Orpheus dance troupe were members of the Chicago Hellenic
Choir, directed by Eftihia Papageorgiou. For over two years, Orpheus has
been working with Ms. Papageorgiou, practicing and presenting a variety of
traditional and modern Greek songs, adding another dimension to the dance
troupe. Selections included “Gerakina” , “Thalassaki Mou” and “Tora Pou Pas
Stin Ksenitia” performed to live music, courtesy of Ms. Papageorgiou and the
Orpheus music ensemble.
The troupe’s first performance was in the town of Finikounda. On their way
to the beach side venue, the performers marched through the streets singing
a traditional Greek song, “Eis Ton Afro Tis Thalassas” as onlookers
applauded, cheered and sang along. Mr. Michelis, Mayor of Methoni and Deputy
Mayor, Mr. Kourvelas were present for the performance. The crowd enjoyed the
lively, animated performance while Mayor Michelis congratulated the troupe
on their efforts in preserving Greek culture and traditions abroad.
Click here for more pictures from the
Finikounda performance
Another performance was given in Ancient Messini, in the village of
Mavrommati. Besides the energetic singing and dancing, members of the troupe
gave insightful and moving speeches about what this experience meant to
them. Many of the dancers, particularly the younger ones, commented that
this trip was exceptionally meaningful to them. Not only were they
first-time visitors to a country with such a remarkable history, magnificent
scenery and centuries old traditions and culture, but more importantly it
was an opportunity to proudly give a dynamic, traditional performance in the
birthplace of their grandparents and parents. Mr. Demetrios Kouvelakis,
President of the Cultural Association "I Arxaia Messini", expressed similar
sentiments as Mayor Michelis, and thanked Orpheus for participating in "Ithomaia
2007", their annual festival.
The last, and perhaps most remarkable, performance took place in Kalamata,
at the famous Kastro Amphitheater. At the conclusion of the performance, the
troupe received a standing ovation from the audience, who was impressed with
the professional, enthusiastic, and moving production. Afterwards, the
Mayor’s office hosted a generous reception for Orpheus, their families and
friends.
Click here for more pictures from the Kastro Performance
Members of the Kalamata Branch of the Lykeion Dance Group met with Orpheus
for several workshop sessions. In addition to demonstrating variations on
the traditional Peloponnese dances, Kalamatianos and Tsamikos, Director
Tasos Mihos also taught the troupe some local songs to accompany the dances.
Likewise, Agis Tsakalakos introduced versions of the popular Tsamikos dance,
along with Sygathistos from Thrace. Representing material from Kalimnos,
Anna Mavrou expertly exhibited traditional dances from this island. Along
with Nikos Petroulias, Ms. Mavrou also conducted youth group dance sessions.
The Lykeio instructors commented on Orpheus’ strong and extensive dance
skills, and how organized and disciplined the group was, especially with so
many younger members.
In addition to swimming in the warm waters of the stunning beaches of Stoupa
and Finikounda, Orpheus members had the opportunity to visit various
archeological and natural wonder sites around the Kalamata area. The
itinerary included excursions to Ancient Olympia, Methoni, Diros caves and
Ancient Messini.
Extensive media coverage featured the troupe in local newspapers (Elefteria,
Simaia, Foni, Epikairotita) radio (ERA Kalamata) and television channels
(NET Messinias, Star TV). Orpheus President Yannis Economou and Youth Group
Coordinator Bessie Grosso were invited to City Hall to meet with the Mayor
of Kalamata, Mr. Panayiotis Nikas and Deputy Mayor Mr. Theofanis Kleidonas.
Also present was ex-Vice President of S.A.E of North and South America, Mr.
Christos Tomaras. Mayor Nikas was pleased that Orpheus chose Kalamata as its
destination this year, and congratulated the troupe on its efforts in
preserving Greek culture and traditions in the United States. |