The Athens Epidaurus Festival launches its 2025 edition with a high-energy opening party that promises to ignite the summer season. In a celebration bursting with rhythm and flair, the renowned Rosanna Mailan Orchestra will bring the pulsating sounds of authentic Cuban and Latin music to the heart of Athens, transforming Pireos 260 into a vibrant dance floor.
Part of the beloved LIVE at the Square concert series, this special performance on 30 May invites audiences to mark the Festival’s 70th anniversary with an unforgettable evening of music and dance. The festivities begin after the premiere performances of “Here Dwell the Dragons” (Hic Sunt Dracones) by Ariane Mnouchkine and “Karagiozis Mad Max” by Spyros Angelopoulos—two standout productions opening the season at Pireos 260 earlier the same evening.
Led by the dynamic Cuban vocalist and composer Rosanna Mailan, and under the artistic direction of bassist, composer, and arranger Yoel Soto, the ten-piece orchestra delivers a dazzling blend of classic Cuban tunes, New York Latin jazz, and Latin-style reimaginings of pop hits. It’s a bold, electrifying sound that bridges tradition and modernity, designed to move both heart and feet.
The event offers free admission and begins at 11pm.
About Rosanna Mailan
Hailing from Havana, Cuba, Rosanna Mailan Sevila began her musical journey at the age of six under the guidance of her musician father. Trained in guitar, piano, and vocal performance, she moved to Greece in 2007 and quickly became a standout figure in Athens’ Latin music scene. Over the years, she has collaborated with artists such as Loca Latina and Mr. Bachata, performing on some of the country’s most prestigious stages. Today, Mailan continues to expand her international career, captivating audiences with her expressive voice and magnetic stage presence.
The Orchestra
Formed in 2020, the Rosanna Mailan Orchestra is a powerhouse ensemble featuring top Greek and Cuban musicians. With roots in jazz and Latin music, the group is known for its technical mastery and infectious energy. Their repertoire includes original compositions and arrangements by Soto and Mailan, delivering a rich sonic experience that celebrates cultural fusion and artistic excellence.
Lineup
Rosanna Mailan – Vocals
Yoel Soto – Musical Director, Bass, Arrangements
Carlos Menendez – Percussion
Angelos Polychronou – Congas
Jim Staridas – 1st Trombone
Spyros Asimakopoulos – 2nd Trombone
Dimitris Papadopoulos – 1st Trumpet
Manos Theodosakis – 2nd Trumpet
Remy Mailan – Backing Vocals
Lazaro Castro – Piano
Lighting Design – Phil Hills
Production – Theatremaking Group “The Other Side” / Christos Alexopoulos
LIVE at the Square Returns
Following three successful seasons, LIVE at the Square returns with a renewed and expanded program. From 30 May to 24 July, the square at Pireos 260 will once again serve as the city’s premier destination for music lovers, hosting an exciting array of free concerts after each evening’s performances. From jazz and disco to funk, soul, hip hop, RnB, and Balkan-inspired sounds, this year’s lineup celebrates musical diversity and urban culture.
Curated by saxophonist Dimitris Tsakas, the 2025 series opens with Rosanna Mailan’s vibrant orchestra, followed by performances from notable acts including Vaggelis Stefanopoulos’ acid jazz/disco sextet, saxophonist Yiannis Kassetas’ new project, trumpeter Yiannis Economides, Idra Kayne with her four-piece band, the jazz-funk trio Los Tre (featuring guest rapper Vikkie), Gadjo Dilo, MC YINKA, and the rousing street band Banda Entopica to close the series in style.
For the detailed program on the scheduled LIVE at the Square events please go here.
