ASTORIA – On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the great Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, a special cultural event is being organized, dedicated to the creative and deeply meaningful encounter between Mikis and the poetry of Yiannis Ritsos. The Mikis Theodorakis – Yiannis Ritsos: Poetry & Music tribute concert takes place on Saturday, April 26, 6:30 PM, at the Thessalian Association ‘Asklepios’, 28-52 31st Street in Astoria.
The declaration of 2025 as the ‘Mikis Theodorakis Commemorative Year’ by the Ministry of Culture of Greece marks a year full of events and tributes throughout Greece and around the world. However, this particular event in Astoria, New York— a symbol of the modern Greek migration to America— holds special significance, as it is the first to be held in the mainland country of the diaspora. It strengthens the connection between Greeks abroad and Greece, as well as their cultural heritage.
This year also carries particular symbolism, as it marks 35 years since the death of the great poet Yiannis Ritsos, adding an emotional and historical depth to the event. Through melodies that touched the hearts of Greeks and verses that shaped our collective memory, the event aims to honor the union of two influential figures in Greek culture— artists who managed through their work to blend music with poetry, emotion with intellect.
This event is especially meaningful as it dynamically highlights the role and vitality of the Greek-American community in New York. It is co-organized by four institutions— two historic diaspora associations, the Thessalian Association ‘Asklepios’, founded in 1905, and the PanSamian Brotherhood of New York ‘Pythagoras’, established in 1913 – affirming their long-standing and active presence in the cultural life of the Greek diaspora.
Also participating in this initiative are the Greek American Writers Guild, and the Hellenic American Project, a significant university research center based at Queens College, which is dedicated to recording, studying, and archiving the lives and contributions of Greeks in America.
The event will feature live music with iconic works by the composer, performed by beloved artists of the Greek American community, while the poetry recitations will be presented by members of the Greek American Writers Guild.
Through the collaboration of these institutions, the event not only serves as a tribute to the creative meeting of two iconic figures of Greek culture and intellect, but also as a celebration of the cultural continuity and collective memory of the Hellenic Diaspora.
Margarita Theodorakis, beloved daughter of Mikis, will participate in the event (virtually) with an honorary greeting, adding a personal and emotional touch to the tribute.
Admission to the event is free. A reception follows.
