The Schools of the Greek Community of Melbourne Honour Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis

The Schools of the Greek Community of Melbourne Honour Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis

More than 500 students from all campuses of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s Culture and Language Schools came together on Saturday 29 November at Robert Blackwood Hall for a celebration marking the culmination of a year dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of two iconic composers of modern Greece, Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis. 

The students presented songs by the two composers, traditional dances, and theatrical scenes from beloved Greek films associated with their music. The performance transported the audience through quintessential Greek imagery, sea and summer, cinema and poetry, highlighting works that have shaped Greek cultural identity. 

The production was musically enriched in two key ways: through the piano of school choir coordinator Betty Exintari, the favourite instrument of Manos Hadjidakis, and through the contributions of three community musicians, Tony Iliou, Iakovos Papadopoulos and Vyron Triantafyllidis, who accompanied the performance. Students also supported the choir with their own instruments, adding a moving and authentic dimension to well-known songs. 

The script, direction and song selection were led by the Schools’ drama teacher, Katerina Putachidou, with musical preparation by Exintari. Dance selection and teaching were undertaken by Jenny Iliou, Vangelis Matthaiou and Maria Karakotta. General coordination was overseen by the Deputy Principal, Christina Soumi. More than 50 teachers worked with dedication throughout the year and behind the scenes on the day, contributing to an unforgettable result. 

Student, teacher and parent participation exceeded expectations. The theatre filled with children of all ages who came together on stage to create a shared artistic outcome, reflecting the strong bonds of this vibrant school community. 

“This year’s celebration was one of memory, music and pride. Our students honoured with respect and creativity two great composers who shaped the cultural identity of modern Greece. We are deeply moved by their enthusiasm and dedication. We remain committed to ensuring that every child in our community discovers and loves Greek culture,” stated the Director of the Greek Community Schools, Maria Bakalidou. 

The event was honoured by the presence of the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitra Georgagzoglou, the Acting Education Coordinator, Maria Triantafyllou, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, Bill Papastergiadis OAM, as well as members of the Board of the Greek Community, and representatives of Faros Alliance. 

Papastergiadis added: “This celebration is a living testament to the dedication and passion of our teachers. I would like to thank all the educators for their outstanding work, which brings our children into direct contact with the richness of our cultural heritage. The active participation of families and the enthusiasm of the students fill us with pride and give us the strength to continue with even greater enthusiasm.” 

The Greek Community of Melbourne congratulates all students and teachers for this exceptional event and extends sincere thanks to parents for their ongoing support.