This week, Nicosia audiences are in for a treat with two captivating nights of ballet performed by celebrated dancers from Greece. Alongside these performances, there will be free workshops designed for dance students aged 12 to 18.
Educational Focus of Nicosia 2030
Education remains a cornerstone of Nicosia 2030. In line with this mission, the organization has strengthened its partnership with the Nicosia International Festival and the Greek National Opera (GNO) to enhance educational opportunities. This week, as part of the festival’s Parallel Programme, the GNO Professional School of Dance will present a series of performances and workshops. Marking its 20th anniversary, the school will showcase the anniversary performance, Progression, curated by its Director of Studies, Yorghos Matskaris, at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre on Wednesday and Thursday.
Anniversary Performance Highlights
For this special anniversary event, renowned and award-winning choreographer Russell Maliphant has been commissioned to create a new piece titled Verge. This marks Maliphant’s first collaboration with GNO, promising a unique and mesmerizing performance.
Additionally, the school’s students will perform Exceedance, a study of Martha Graham’s technique choreographed by Cypriot-origin teacher Olia Tornaritou. The piece features original music composition, orchestration, and performance by Giorgos Kontovas. The program also includes excerpts from the classical ballet Giselle, choreographed by Fotis Diamantopoulos, a soloist with GNO and a professor at the School of Dance. These excerpts are based on the choreography by Jean Coralli, Jules Perrault, and Marius Petipa, with music by Adolphe Adam.
Workshops for Young Dancers
This week, free workshops on classical ballet and contemporary dance will be available for teenage dancers. Interested participants must register through a Google Form as space is limited.
Classical Ballet and Contemporary Dance Performances
The GNO Professional Dance School will perform as part of the Nicosia International Festival’s parallel program on July 10-11 at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre. Performances begin at 8:30 pm, and admission is free, but registration is required via www.soldoutticketbox.com.
These events not only celebrate the art of ballet but also emphasize the importance of dance education, providing a platform for young dancers to learn and grow.