For the first time ever in Cyprus, Zorba the Greek, one of the most powerful and emotionally stirring ballets of the 20th century, will be performed in its full-scale version with symphony orchestra, chorus, and international stars.
The performances will take place under the open sky, by the sea, at the iconic Paphos Castle — a place where history and culture come alive.
Zorba as a Symbol of Freedom and Life
Zorba is not just a character, he is a philosophy. He embodies a man who lives life to the fullest, despite pain and loss. His character encapsulates the indomitable spirit of Greece: the ability to find joy even in the face of tragedy, to express freedom through dance when words fail.
His famous sirtaki dance has become a universal symbol of freedom. In every movement lies the story of a man who refuses to surrender, who finds in dance a language more powerful than words.
About the Ballet and Its Creators
The ballet, choreographed by Lorca Massine based on the novel by Nikos Kazantzakis, with music by Mikis Theodorakis, is not just a story, it’s a state of being. A state where pain is processed through movement, and freedom is found in dance.
Mikis Theodorakis, a legendary composer and the voice of Greek resistance and freedom, created music that became the soundtrack of an entire era. In 2025, we mark 100 years since his birth, making this performance especially meaningful. Theodorakis didn’t merely write music for Zorba the Greek, he composed a hymn to human dignity. His melodies, infused with the sorrows and joys of the Greek people, have become a symbol of the fight for freedom and human rights.
The score of Zorba the Greek is poetic, each note speaks of what it means to be alive. The famous sirtaki theme begins slowly, like a quiet reflection on life, and gradually transforms into a whirlwind of joy and liberation.
We often think of art as something aesthetic. But there are works that remind us of what art truly is a way to endure, to understand, to overcome. Zorba the Greek is exactly that kind of work.
A Ballet About Inner Freedom
This ballet speaks of a joy that triumphs over tragedy, of a dance that begins where words end. It’s a work about preserving our humanity in any circumstance and about discovering beauty even in life’s most difficult moments.
Highlights of the Production:
- Over 150 artists on stage
- Igor Tsvirko, Principal Dancer of the Bolshoi Theatre, and the Ballet Company of the Slovene National Theatre Maribor, personally selected by Lorca Massine
- Cyprus Symphony Orchestra and Diastasis Vocal Ensemble
- Special guest: Greek stage icon Alkistis Protopsalti
- Musical direction by Loukás Karytinos, one of Greece’s most acclaimed conductors
A Work of Historic Significance
Zorba the Greek is more than a ballet, it is a cultural phenomenon. Created in 1988, it was the first full-length ballet based on a modern Greek literary work. Lorca Massine’s production combines classical ballet tradition with authentic Greek folklore, forging a unique artistic language.
At its heart is a powerful contrast between two worlds: the rational, Western-educated intellectual and the untamed, life-loving Zorba. Through their meeting, the ballet reveals a philosophy of embracing life in all its fullness with its joys and sorrows, triumphs and failures.
A Charity Mission
A part of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Center for Preventive Pediatrics “Americos Argyriou”, one of Cyprus’ most important nonprofit organizations specializing in child and family health, prevention, and support services across the country. This gesture symbolizes an investment in the future, as children, like art, represent hope and the continuity of life.
Official Support
The project is held under the auspices of the Deputy Ministry of Culture, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism of Cyprus, and the Municipality of Paphos.
Why It Matters
Produced by Celebrity Gala and Papadopoulos & Schinis Productions Ltd, this project holds special significance for the team behind Celebrity Gala. It has long been our dream to bring to Cyprus a production that combines international artistic excellence with profound cultural meaning.
Zorba the Greek is not just entertainment, it is a spiritual experience that reminds us what it means to be human.
In today’s world of technology and globalization, it is more important than ever to remain connected to the values that define our humanity. Zorba teaches us to embrace our emotions without shame, to find beauty in simplicity, and never to stop dancing even when life tests us the most.
Dates & Time:
September 26 & 27, 2025 — Performances begin at 20:00
Venue: Paphos Castle
Tickets:
👉 https://www.soldoutticketbox.com/event/zorba-the-greek-ballet-2025?lang=en&utm_source=homearticles&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=bannercampaign
