Film showing and Q&A with the director Tzeli Hadjidimitriou
In Search of Orpheus examines the mythical story of Orpheus and his connection with the island of Lesvos. It follows, in a poetic way, the traces of the mythical musician on this island, where, according to legend, his head and his lyre were washed up on the shore.
We ask ordinary people what they know about Orpheus, finding that each person has modified the story according to their own imagination and experiences. This is the "intangible cultural heritage" of Greece, the everyday culture of ordinary people, which defines our collective memory and identity. We also, incidentally, encounter the famous Chinese lyric poetess Lan Lan.
Wednesday 7 March
6:30 pm
Greek Community Club, 206-210 Lakemba Street, Lakemba
Free
Language of event: Greek + English
Australian archaeologists have been working in Cyprus since the 1930s; the Nicholson Museum at the University of Sydney holds a collection of several thousand Cypriot antiquities. In this free one-hour guided tour an archaeologist will explore the artistic development of the island’s traditions over thousands of years and share stories on some of the Australian excavations and research into Cyprus’s past. Using the museum’s collection as a starting point, discover the rich history of ancient Cyprus and the stunning geometric and animal designs that make the island’s art so unique.
Monday 5 March
3.30pm
Nicholson Museum, Main Quadrangle, The University of Sydney
Free
Bookings: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. or 9351 2812
Language: English
The launch of the book by Maria Haniotou
This enthralling historical novel portrays the life of an orphan from the year 1922 to the end of the Greek Civil War. Vangelakis, instead of going to school, is sold for 300 drachmas per year and a load of wheat so that his mother and younger brother could live. In 1940 he enlists in the war against the Italians. Afterwards he fights the Germans and then experiences the terrors of the Civil War. However, he survives. He finds hope and emotional warmth in sweet Antonia, who carries him out of the jaws of fear and terror.
Sunday 4 March
4pm
Cypriot Club, 58-76 Stanmore Road, Stanmore
Free
Language: Greek
Vasilis Adrahtas will present a talk on one of Samos’ greatest contributions to civilisation, the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. He will delve into the philosopher’s life and work, including the theorem which has made him a household name. Light refreshments will be served following the talk, with Samian wines and ouzo on offer.
Saturday 3 March
2pm
Samian Brotherhood, 223 Great North Road, Five Dock
Free
Language: Greek