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Tag: dance

  • Nicosia Explored Through Music and Dance in Upcoming Performance

    Nicosia Explored Through Music and Dance in Upcoming Performance

    Nicosia takes centre stage this January with a unique music and dance performance that delves into the city’s rich multicultural history. Titled Nostalgia, this performance highlights Nicosia’s diverse traditions and communities, traversing from the Byzantine Era to the present day.

    Nicosia: A Journey Through Time

    Nostalgia invites its audience on a historical journey, exploring the evolution of Nicosia through various artistic expressions, including art, music, dance, speech, and movement. The performance will take place at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre on January 17, starting at 7.30pm.

    Highlighting Cypriot Traditions

    The production celebrates the island’s cultural heritage by incorporating elements from different eras and communities. Audiences can expect to hear Byzantine music and narrative songs, along with the languages of the city’s diverse population. These include the dialects of Leontios Machairas, the Arab-Cypriots of Sanna, as well as Armenian, Turkish, and the dialects from Cappadocians, Asia Minor, and Pontic Greeks.

    A Collaborative Artistic Effort

    This performance is a collaborative project, uniting dozens of musicians, performers, and cultural groups from across Cyprus. Notable contributors include musicians like Efraín López, Michalis Kouloumis, and Elena Xyda. Joining them are the Byzantine dance group Cypriot Melodists and the Traditional Music Choir of the Politistiko Ergastiri Ayion Omoloyiton.

    Engaging Local Communities

    In addition to these established artists, the performance features various local talents, such as actress and singer Michiel Frangiskou, folk poet Shiarpel Frangiskou, and dancer Dervish Zeybek. Dancers from the Youth Centre Panagia Soumela will also be part of this vibrant showcase, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the production.

    Preserving Cultural Heritage

    One of the key themes of Nostalgia is the exploration of issues related to the preservation and dissemination of intangible cultural heritage. The performance aims to raise awareness about the cultural loss that can occur due to migration and displacement, making it particularly relevant in today’s global context.

    Ticket Information

    For those interested in experiencing this unique portrayal of Nicosia’s history and culture, tickets can be purchased through More.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a performance that not only entertains but also educates and inspires.

    A Cultural Celebration

    Ultimately, Nostalgia is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of Nicosia’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. As the performers take to the stage, they will create an immersive experience that connects audiences with the city’s past while envisioning its future.

  • ArtCargo Festival Brings Diverse Street Performances to Limassol

    ArtCargo Festival Brings Diverse Street Performances to Limassol

    ArtCargo is showcasing diverse street performances across Limassol as part of its annual Performing Arts Festival. The event, which commenced this week, follows the motto “art belongs everywhere,” and features over 30 productions from 12 international collectives. The festival runs until November 15, offering a mix of physical theatre, new circus acts, media art, and site-specific performances for audiences to enjoy.

    Artcargo: Free and Accessible Performances Across the City

    ArtCargo’s vibrant festival atmosphere spills into the streets, beaches, and public squares, providing passersby, families, and curious locals with free performances. This accessibility is a key element of the festival, allowing art to reach a wider audience without barriers. From the very first day, the streets of Limassol have been alive with the sounds and sights of performers engaging with the public.

    Indoor Shows Offering Unique Experiences

    While the festival primarily takes place outdoors, there are two indoor shows that invite audiences into a more traditional theatre setting. Monad, a French collective, will perform Yin at the Pattiihio Theatre on Friday. This captivating performance combines juggling and dance, drawing inspiration from dervish movements to create a mesmerizing experience that transports the audience through space and time.

    Innovative Performances and Participatory Art

    One of the standout performances is Mission Roosevelt, presented by Tony Clifton Circus from Italy. This engaging piece, with support from the Cyprus Red Cross, invites audiences to experience the city from a unique perspective by placing them in wheelchairs to navigate the urban landscape. Scheduled for November 12-14, this participatory performance highlights themes of access and empowerment.

    On November 13, local artist Viky Kalla will showcase A Meeting-Celebration in the Old Port Square. This choreographed piece features 12 dancers and explores themes of community and connection, contributing to the festival’s overarching message of inclusivity and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Belgian collective Shadowdance is transforming the Molos basins into a dreamscape of light and shadow, with performances running daily until Sunday.

    Workshops and Public Engagement

    In addition to the performances, ArtCargo offers free workshops in movement, improvisation, and theatre led by performers such as Murmuyo, Kamchatka, and Viky Kalla. These sessions are designed for the public and not aimed at professionals, encouraging community engagement and participation in the arts.

    Moreover, the festival includes a series of public talks and workshops that focus on the future of Limassol’s public spaces. Organised in collaboration with Lemesos2030, OPU Collective (Organisation for Positive Urbanism), and Critical Mass, these events aim to foster dialogue among citizens, urban thinkers, and artists about how to reimagine and shape their shared urban environments.

    A Grand Finale to Remember

    The ArtCargo Festival will culminate on November 15 with a spectacular finale at the historical KEAN Factory. Here, Italian vertical theatre innovators eVenti Verticali will present CUBO, an awe-inspiring aerial performance featuring a 7-metre-high metal cube suspended in mid-air. Following this breathtaking display, attendees can enjoy the ArtCargo Closing Party, which will feature the Cypriot DJ duo Aparapira Parape, along with food, drinks, and family-friendly activities.

    Join the Celebration of Art

    ArtCargo’s commitment to bringing diverse street performances to Limassol reflects the festival’s dedication to making art accessible to all. With a rich programme of events scheduled through November 15, residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a celebration of creativity and community. For more details, the full programme is available on the festival’s official website: artcargofest.com.

  • Nicosia events: Exciting Events This Weekend in Nicosia and Beyond

    Nicosia events: Exciting Events This Weekend in Nicosia and Beyond

    nicosia events — nicosia events — This weekend in Nicosia, a variety of events cater to diverse interests, making it an exciting time for locals and visitors alike. The Nicosia International Festival presents a stunning dance production titled The Golden Age, showcasing the talents of Konstantinos Rigos and the Greek National Opera on Thursday and Friday.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    • For electronic music enthusiasts, the BEONIX festival is set to transform ETKO into a futuristic festival space, showcasing renowned DJs like Armin Van Buuren, Adriatique, and Boris Brejcha.
    • In Ayia Napa, the inaugural Days of Ceramic Art and Clay event will highlight local artisans and include exhibitions, workshops, and markets from Friday to Sunday.
    • Finally, Kalopanagiotis will host the all-female choir Amalgamation for a special concert on Saturday, presenting a performance inspired by nature and collective expression.

    Nicosia events: Dazzling Dance Performance: The Golden Age

    The Golden Age, a captivating blend of contemporary dance and ballet, will be performed at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre at 8:30 PM. Tickets start from €20, offering an opportunity to witness an artistic highlight of the festival season.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Culinary Delights at Fork Food Market

    On Friday at 7 PM, the beloved Fork Food Market returns to the Nicosia Municipal Gardens, featuring a mouth-watering array of international street food. Attendees can enjoy Italian sandwiches, beefburgers, bao buns, pad Thai noodles, and much more, all in a vibrant outdoor setting.

    Celebrating Queer Cinema

    Meanwhile, the 6th Queer Wave is in full swing in downtown Nicosia, offering screenings of films that explore queer themes. The event includes short films, feature films, discussions, and workshops, taking place at the NiMAC throughout the weekend.

    Promoting Sustainable Transportation

    Nicosia is also engaging in the European Mobility Week 2025, hosting free events to encourage sustainable mobility. On Saturday, a parade will commence at Eleftheria Square, inviting pedestrians, cyclists, and roller skaters to join in the festivities. The weekend will culminate with Car-Free Day on Sunday, transforming the Ayioi Omoloyites neighbourhood into a lively hub of artistic activities for families.

    Comedy and Music Festivals in Limassol

    Just a short trip away, Limassol is hosting the Stantar Kkomety Festival, a four-day celebration of comedy featuring performances from over 50 comedians. This festival runs until Sunday night, with events spread across multiple venues including Theatro Ena and Sto Dromo bar.

    For electronic music enthusiasts, the BEONIX festival is set to transform ETKO into a futuristic festival space, showcasing renowned DJs like Armin Van Buuren, Adriatique, and Boris Brejcha.

    Classical Music Concerts in Paphos

    Paphos will treat music lovers to two classical concerts as part of the Technopolis 20 Classics series. The first concert features Romanian cellist Andrei Ioniță and Russian pianist Igor Andreev on Friday, while the second concert on Sunday welcomes young Cypriot pianist Anna Avramidou performing alongside Ioniță.

    Festivities in Rural Areas

    Outside the urban centres, traditional celebrations continue. In Flasou village, the 5th Traditional Festival on Saturday will offer craft activities, food, and live music. The free Municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia Music Festival will also feature a series of outdoor concerts across the Famagusta district.

    In Ayia Napa, the inaugural Days of Ceramic Art and Clay event will highlight local artisans and include exhibitions, workshops, and markets from Friday to Sunday.

    Finally, Kalopanagiotis will host the all-female choir Amalgamation for a special concert on Saturday, presenting a performance inspired by nature and collective expression.

  • Golden age — The Golden Age: A Dazzling Dance-Party Experience

    Golden age — The Golden Age: A Dazzling Dance-Party Experience

    The Golden Age is set to enchant audiences as it opens the Nicosia International Festival 2025 with a vibrant dance-party performance. Presented by the Greek National Opera, this exciting production debuts at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre on Thursday and Friday, showcasing the creative vision of renowned Artistic Director Konstantinos Rigos.

    Golden age: A Celebration of Dance and Art

    This production not only marks the inaugural event of the festival but is also anticipated as one of the week’s standout performances. The Golden Age transports viewers into a dizzying world where the lines between opera and a lively party blur, creating an unforgettable experience on stage. Following its successful premiere in Novi Sad at the Belgrade Dance Festival and subsequent performances at Athens’ Stavros Niarchos Hall, which received enthusiastic standing ovations, Nicosia now has the chance to witness this remarkable work.

    A Manifesto for Tomorrow

    Organisers have described The Golden Age as “a manifesto for tomorrow,” reflecting a forward-thinking approach to contemporary dance. This production encapsulates the spirit of innovation that the festival aims to promote. As excitement builds, tickets for this unique event are available on More.com, starting at €20, making it accessible to a wide audience eager to engage with the arts.

    What’s Next for the Festival

    The Golden Age is just the beginning of a dynamic season at the Nicosia International Festival. Following this opening performance, the festival will feature a rich array of events, including music nights showcasing local artists, traditional festivals set in the picturesque municipal gardens, and performances by notable Greek stars. The programme even includes a festival on two wheels, promising to keep the community engaged and entertained throughout the autumn.

    Event Details

    • Production: The Golden Age
    • Dates: September 18-19
    • Location: Nicosia Municipal Theatre, Nicosia
    • Time: 8.30 PM
    • Tickets: From €20, available at More.com
  • Mitsikouri Festival Brings 11 Exciting Performances for Children

    Mitsikouri Festival Brings 11 Exciting Performances for Children

    mitsikouri festival — The Mitsikouri Festival, officially known as the Mitsikouri International Performing Arts Festival for Children and Young People, promises an engaging experience with 11 performances from 9 countries. Scheduled from October 11 to 19, this vibrant festival will be held across multiple cities in Cyprus, including Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and Lefkara.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    This year marks the festival’s second edition, continuing its mission to provide dedicated performances for children and families. Following the success of its inaugural event, the festival returns under the theme ‘Discovering’, offering a diverse range of productions that cater to children of all ages.

    The festival’s programme showcases an array of artistic expressions, including theatre, dance, music, object theatre, and contemporary circus performances. Many of these productions have been featured at esteemed international festivals focused on children and young audiences. Notably, the majority of the performances are non-verbal, making them accessible and enjoyable for children from various backgrounds.

    According to the festival organisers, the initiative aims to connect the Cypriot public and local artistic community with global contemporary trends in performing arts for children. “The festival is designed to create unique experiences for the whole family,” they state, highlighting its family-oriented approach.

    In addition to the performances, the festival will offer a parallel programme that includes workshops, lectures, seminars, discussions, and other engaging activities. These events are intended for children, parents, educators, and arts professionals, enriching the overall experience of the festival.

    This year’s festival also features collaborations with notable institutions like the National Betting Authority and Nicosia Bookfest, as well as partnerships with two candidate cities vying for the title of European Capital of Culture 2030. Furthermore, all international productions are presented under the auspices of the respective embassies in Cyprus.

    Participating countries include The Netherlands, Italy, France, Spain, Cyprus, Luxembourg, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Ireland. With just over a month remaining until the festival kicks off, the full schedule of performances can be found on the festival’s official website, and tickets are currently available for purchase via the SoldOut platform.

  • Wine glasses — Cyprus Dancer Sets New Guinness Record with 511 Wine Glasses Balanced on Head

    Wine glasses — Cyprus Dancer Sets New Guinness Record with 511 Wine Glasses Balanced on Head

    A 64-year-old Cypriot professional dancer has set a new Guinness World Record by balancing 511 wine glasses on his head, surpassing his previous record of 319 glasses achieved earlier this year. Aristotelis Valaoritis completed this remarkable feat last month, as confirmed by the official record-keeping organisation this week.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Wine glasses: Record-Breaking Achievement

    Valaoritis’s latest record involved a staggering weight of over 63 kilograms, with each wine glass weighing approximately 123 grams. The professional entertainer has been showcasing his glass-balancing skills since 1995, captivating audiences at restaurants and events across Cyprus.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Improving on His Previous Record

    In 2023, Valaoritis initially set the Guinness World Record by balancing 319 glasses. “I like doing this,” he stated after his earlier success. “I see the faces of spectators full of tension and anxiety as if they are watching a movie.” It was this passion and desire to entertain that drove him to attempt an even greater challenge.

    The Technique Behind the Balance

    Preparing for the record attempt required meticulous planning and precise execution. Family members and friends played a crucial role in supporting Valaoritis by arranging the wine glasses into a stable block, which was separated by eight sheets of plywood to ensure stability. This structure was then placed on his head using a specially designed lifting device.

    Executing the Record Attempt

    Once the wooden platform was securely positioned, Valaoritis carefully straightened his back to distribute the full weight across his head. He then extended his arms in a bow before removing his hands from the tray, relying solely on his head to support the entire weight of the glasses.

    During the record attempt, Valaoritis maintained his balance for a remarkable 15 seconds, swaying gently to prevent any spillage of the glasses. His ability to remain composed under pressure highlighted his skill and dedication to his craft.

    A Personal Journey of Dedication

    Valaoritis accepted the record challenge not just to achieve a world record but to demonstrate his enduring passion for dancing and glass-balancing. “I still have the ability and passion for what I do,” he declared. His commitment to the art form is evident in his rigorous training and preparation leading up to this accomplishment.

    Celebrating Cultural Heritage

    For Valaoritis, this record is more than a personal achievement; it is also a celebration of Cypriot culture and tradition. “With dedication and training, I managed to achieve exactly what I had set as a goal… [And] above all, I am proud to present this tradition,” he remarked. His success serves to inspire others in his community and beyond.

    The Future of Glass Dancing

    As he continues to entertain and engage audiences with his unique skill, Valaoritis hopes to encourage a new generation of performers to explore the art of glass dancing. His record-breaking achievement is a testament to the potential that exists within this traditional performance art.

    Valaoritis stands as a symbol of perseverance and passion, proving that age is no barrier to achieving one’s dreams. His remarkable accomplishment will undoubtedly inspire many to pursue their own passions with the same fervour and dedication.