XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Thursday, 24 October 2024 23:37

Original Barbie Dream House

For Sale: Barbie Dream House with all the original pieces, including music and lights.
Premiere: Wednesday October 30th
(Special Offer: 20 tickets available for €5 at the box office. Arrive by 16:00)

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English speaking  theatre, proudly presents a revolutionary reimagining of Ruggero Leoncavallo’s  timeless opera in it’s newest rendition:  "I Pagliacci: Pedal to the Metal."  


This daring fusion of opera and heavy metal, is brought to life through the heavy metal orchestration and electric bass of Philip Modinos and the electric guitar of Sinnik Al, with stage direction by Dimosthenis Stavrianos. Premiering on October 30th , the show will run for only 10 shows, every Wednesday as part of the theatre's innovative "No Opera Wednesdays" initiative.



As the haunting melodies of Leoncavallo's iconic score  collide with the fierce energy of heavy metal, bringing new intensity and passion to the tragic tale of love, jealousy, and betrayal. The bold adaptation merges the emotional depth of traditional opera with the raw power of heavy metal, promising to captivate a diverse audience from opera aficionados to metal enthusiasts. 



CAST

Orchestration:  Philip Modinos, Sinnik Al
Stage Direction:  Dimosthenis Stavrianos
Canio:  Philip Modinos, Dimitris Alexandridis, John Rownan
Nedda:  Irini Konsta, Despina Anagnou
Sylvio:  Dimosthenis Stavrianos, TBA
Tonio:  Alexandros Gavaris, Maira Georgarou
Pepe:  Philip Modinos, Dimitris Alexandridis, John Rownan
Credits:
Photos: endymionas
Poster: Sotiria Bramou
Communications Manager: Eleftheria Sakareli
Production: FAIL BETTER PRODUCTIONS NON-PROFIT

Performance Dates: 

Wednesday’s from 30th October  until  15th  January  at 20.00
(Not Performing on 25/12/24 & 1/1/25)

Note: Subtitles will be included during the performance

The theatre also has a bar with affordable prices (beer €2.50, drinks €5).



Thursday, 24 October 2024 14:11

Custom Made Wooden Bed

For Sale: Handmade wooden double bed. A mattress is also available for a small additional cost.
Thursday, 24 October 2024 14:05

Kids Beds

For Sale: Two white beds with storage space. They can be used as two separate single beds or as a corner bed. Mattresses are also included at no extra cost.

Bed 1: L: 180 x W: 90 x H: 40

Bed 2: L: 160 x W: 90 x H: 40
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, especially in a vibrant metropolis like Athens, it can be easy to lose sight of the beauty and significance of appreciating life. Whether it’s the towering ancient monuments or the lively streets filled with people, Athens offers countless opportunities for reflection and gratitude. But why is it so important to take a step back and appreciate life, especially in such a busy environment, and how can we practice this in our daily lives?

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Why Appreciating Life is Crucial

1. Fosters Mental Well-Being

Taking time to appreciate life contributes to mental health and overall happiness. When we stop to recognize the beauty around us—whether it’s a sunset, a kind gesture, or a quiet moment of peace—we foster a mindset of gratitude. This, in turn, reduces stress and anxiety, promotes positivity, and encourages a more balanced outlook on life.

2. Builds Stronger Connections

When we appreciate life, we’re more present in our interactions with others. In a big city like Athens, where people come from all walks of life, taking time to connect with others—whether it's a friendly conversation at a café or a smile shared with a stranger—strengthens the sense of community. It reminds us that we’re all part of a greater whole, sharing the same space and experiences

3. Encourages Mindfulness

In the fast-paced rhythm of city life, it’s easy to get caught up in to-do lists and daily tasks. Appreciating life helps us slow down and be mindful of the present moment. Mindfulness allows us to be fully aware of our surroundings and experiences, which leads to greater fulfillment and contentment.

4. Inspires Personal Growth

When we take the time to appreciate life, we often gain new perspectives. Gratitude for life’s simple pleasures—like the beauty of the Acropolis at sunset or the sound of the sea at Piraeus—helps us stay grounded, humble, and more open to personal growth. In this way, appreciation isn’t just about living in the moment, but also about reflecting on how we can continuously improve ourselves and our relationships.

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How to Appreciate Life in Athens
  • Explore the Blend of Old and New
    Athens is a city where ancient history meets modern culture, making it a perfect place to practice appreciation. Take time to explore the city’s landmarks, like the Parthenon or the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and reflect on the history that has shaped the world today. At the same time, appreciate the city’s vibrant contemporary life—its art, music, and cuisine that make Athens so unique.
  • Enjoy Green Spaces
    Despite being a busy city, Athens is home to many parks and gardens. Spend time in places like the National Garden or Mount Lycabettus, where you can disconnect from the urban noise and reconnect with nature. These green spaces offer a moment of tranquility, where you can reflect on the natural beauty around you and practice mindfulness.
  • Practice Daily Gratitude
    Living in a big city can often feel overwhelming, but practicing daily gratitude can help you appreciate the small joys. Whether it’s the taste of a delicious souvlaki, the sound of children playing in a local square, or the beauty of the Mediterranean light, acknowledging these little moments can make a big difference in your outlook.
  • Embrace the City’s Slower Side
    Athens might be a fast-moving city, but it also has a slower, more relaxed side. Make time for leisurely activities like sipping a coffee at a local café, taking an evening stroll through the old Plaka neighborhood, or enjoying a sunset at Sounion. These slower moments can help you pause and reflect, appreciating life without the rush.
  • Be Present in Social Interactions
    Athenian culture is deeply social, and there are endless opportunities to connect with others. From casual chats at a taverna to deeper conversations with friends and family, being fully present in these interactions helps you appreciate the richness of human connection. Listen deeply, share openly, and savor the shared moments of laughter, joy, and understanding.
  • Focus on Experiences, Not Materialism
    Living in a big city like Athens can sometimes lead to a focus on material possessions and status. However, appreciating life often comes from experiences, not things. Seek out experiences that enrich your life, whether it’s attending a local theater performance, learning something new at a museum, or spending a day at the beach. These moments create lasting memories and a deeper sense of fulfillment.

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A new digitization project undertaken by the Ministry of Digital Governance and the Ministry of Health, will enable interoperability among Greek hospitals, allowing doctors – regardless of their location, city, or region – to access the national electronic health records of patients without requiring them to present their medical files each time.

“Our aim is for all hospitals in the country to communicate with one another, as well as with the national medical record, the electronic prescription system, and any other structures of the Health Ministry,” Digital Governance Minister Dimitris Papastergiou told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency.

“This initiative has significant implications beyond merely improving organizational efficiency. Consider how much easier it will be for citizens if all health-related information is immediately available on their mobile devices, eliminating the need to carry physical folders of medical tests. Additionally, think of the reduction in bureaucracy if the attending physician has direct access to this information.”

All data related to a patient’s medical history – including diagnostic tests, laboratory results, and radiological images – will be available in the myHealth App.

Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Thursday, 31 October 2024 15:10

Sofa-Bed With Storage

For Sale: Very comfortable sofa bed in excellent condition. It fits 4 people as a sofa and 2 people when opened as a bed. Built-in storage space.
Slow living is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle rooted in ancient cultures, particularly in Greece, where the concept of living in the moment has been part of daily life for centuries. From the unhurried conversations at a local kafeneio (café) to the slow, deliberate preparation of food, Greeks have long embraced the art of taking their time. This cultural tradition of slowing down has not only fostered stronger communities but has also been a path to a more fulfilling and conscious life.

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us feel overwhelmed by the demands of modern living. The pressures of work, constant connectivity, and the need to “do more” have disconnected us from our inner selves and the world around us. Slow living, however, offers a refreshing alternative—a return to mindfulness, intentionality, and deeper connections.

What is Slow Living?

At its core, slow living is about living intentionally, focusing on what truly matters, and being fully present in each moment. It’s about slowing down your pace to savor life’s simple pleasures—whether that’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea, taking a walk in nature, or having meaningful conversations. Unlike the rush of modern life, slow living encourages you to reduce distractions and create a life that aligns with your values, desires, and inner peace.

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The Benefits of Slow Living
  1. Mindful Presence and Inner Peace One of the most profound benefits of slow living is cultivating mindfulness. By consciously slowing down, you begin to experience the world in a deeper, more present way. This helps quiet the mental chatter that often accompanies a busy lifestyle, reducing anxiety and promoting inner calm. Practices like mindful eating, where you savor each bite and appreciate the food in front of you, can transform mundane activities into moments of gratitude and joy.
  2. Enhanced Emotional Well-Being The constant pressure to keep up with societal expectations can take a toll on mental health. Slow living invites you to step off that treadmill, reducing the strain of perfectionism and competition. By embracing a slower, more deliberate pace, you’ll find more space for emotional self-care, reflection, and self-compassion. This lifestyle fosters emotional resilience, allowing you to handle life’s challenges with greater ease and a balanced mind.
  3. Stronger Connections with Others In Greek culture, slow living often manifests in the form of long meals shared with family and friends. These moments of connection, away from distractions, are central to well-being. Slow living encourages deeper relationships by creating space for more meaningful interactions. Instead of rushing through conversations, you take time to listen, to engage, and to be truly present with loved ones—fostering stronger emotional bonds.
  4. A Deeper Connection with Nature Nature has always been a source of spiritual nourishment, and slow living encourages us to reconnect with the natural world. By taking the time to walk in nature, garden, or simply sit outside and enjoy the breeze, we not only reduce stress but also realign ourselves with the rhythms of the earth. This connection to nature offers a grounding experience, helping us to feel more centered and at peace with the world around us.
  5. Increased Creativity and Productivity Contrary to what some might think, slowing down doesn’t mean being unproductive. In fact, taking a step back often allows for greater creativity and more focused work. By eliminating distractions and giving yourself the time to think, reflect, and create, you become more attuned to your inner thoughts and inspirations. The space slow living creates can lead to bursts of creativity and more intentional, high-quality work.
  6. Simplicity and Minimalism Slow living naturally leads to a more minimalist approach to life. By focusing on what truly brings joy and value, you’ll find yourself drawn to simplicity. This might mean decluttering your home, simplifying your schedule, or cutting back on unnecessary commitments. The result is more freedom, less stress, and a life that feels lighter and more aligned with your true self.
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How to Embrace Slow Living in Your Own Life
  1. Set Boundaries with Technology Technology is one of the biggest contributors to the frantic pace of modern life. To embrace slow living, consider setting boundaries around your use of devices. This could mean designating certain hours as screen-free or creating tech-free zones in your home. By reducing digital distractions, you’ll create more space for mindfulness and meaningful experiences.
  2. Prioritize What Matters Slow living is about aligning your life with your values. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you—whether it’s spending more time with family, nurturing a hobby, or simply having time to rest. Prioritize these things, and let go of the rest. When you focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment, the quality of your life improves dramatically.
  3. Practice Mindful Routines Even on the busiest of days, there are opportunities to slow down. Whether it’s preparing a meal with care, enjoying a mindful walk, or setting aside time for meditation, these small acts of mindfulness can make a big difference. Integrating these practices into your routine helps cultivate a sense of peace and presence, no matter how hectic life gets.
  4. Embrace Imperfection Slow living isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about being kind to yourself and accepting that life doesn’t have to be rushed or flawless. Embrace the imperfections, the slower pace, and allow yourself the space to breathe, grow, and evolve.
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In a world that often demands more, slow living offers a much-needed pause—a way to reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. Rooted in Greek tradition and embraced by people seeking mindfulness today, this lifestyle nurtures emotional well-being, fosters creativity, and leads to a deeper sense of fulfillment. By slowing down, you’ll discover that life’s richest moments are often found in its simplest pleasures.
Wednesday, 16 October 2024 12:34

Shadows: A Visual Tribute To John Cassavetes

The Hellenic American Union presents the exhibition "Shadows" as part of the 37th Panorama of European Cinema, paying tribute to the great Greek-American director John Cassavetes. Four young visual artists—Alexandros Vergis, Katerina Christopoulou, Vasilis Pafilis, and Virginia Axioti—illuminate, through their works, a world of shadows: the cinematic universe of John Cassavetes. The exhibition is curated by the renowned painter Yannis Psychopedis.

The opening will take place on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 7:30 PM, at the Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas Gallery of the Hellenic American Union (Massalias 22, Athens), and it will run until November 9, 2024.

John Cassavetes' 1959 film Shadows becomes the subject and meeting point between painting and cinema. This exhibition initiates a fruitful dialogue between the black-and-white cinematic atmosphere of the late 1950s and the vibrant, colorful visual language of today's era. As Yannis Psychopedis notes: "Cassavetes, the radical, pioneering director with his minimalist, improvisational, human-centered cinematic form, provides the raw material and inspiration for his 'Shadows' to be transformed into a visual feast of colors, shapes, techniques, and unique materials. The fluid black-and-white images of the film, the improvised rhythms, the expressive freedom, interpersonal conflicts, and emotional tensions are translated here by the four creators into a visual vocabulary filled with color pulses, unexpected material combinations, free artistic improvisations, and vivid, plastic emotion."

As part of the exhibition, and shortly before it concludes, John Cassavetes' film Shadows will be screened on Friday, November 8, at 7:00 PM at the Theater of the Hellenic American Union, with free admission.

Hours:

Monday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Tuesday, 15 October 2024 14:48

John MCCombs Laughing Passport Comedy Tour

The Athens English Comedy Club welcomes American comedian John McCombs for the first time in Athens, with his solo show ‘LAUGHING PASSPORT’

John McCombs is a 12 year veteran of comedy having performed in 15 different countries over three European tours. His credits include opening shows for Michelle Wolf (Netflix, Comedy Central), Tim Meadows (SNL) and he is a regular at clubs in the Chicagoland area. 

John is also a 4 year veteran of the Marine Corps, and his unique perspective intertwines the absurdity of an aggressive military background with realising his shortcomings as a man who relies on YouTube to learn how to fix things.

John has travelled all over the world, sometimes as a comedian, and sometimes as a drunk tourist; performing comedy for people from all walks of life along the way, including biker gangs, drug rehabilitation patients, and the secret police in Transnistria. He is now touring Europe once more with his new solo show ‘LAUGHING PASSPORT’.

He has stories, and he'll be sharing them!

John McCombs c World Comedy Expo
Image Credit: World Comedy Expo

Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece - bringing you local and international comedians, right in the heart of Athens!

In the last 5 years, the Athens English Comedy Club has hosted lineup shows, open mic shows, online competitions, and comedy workshops, with *120* local and international comedians from *24 countries*, and counting!

Opening acts: Athina Kefalopoulos

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Date: Saturday, October 12th

Time: 21:15 (Doors open 20:45)

Tickets:
€12 early-bird
€16 general admission
€20 at the door

Duration: 1h15 + interval

Recommended for ages 16+

* This show, like all of our shows, is in English! *

Address: ELIART Theater - Konstantinoupoleos 127 (closest to Kerameikos and Metaxourgeio metro stations).

The theatre is wheelchair accessible.

Info: 6987994689 // athensenglishcomedyclub@gmail.com 

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Find John online:

Instagram: johnmccombscomedy  

Facebook: johnmccombscomedy

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AthensEnglishComedyClub

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Come and laugh! Nay! Come and chortle. Or better yet, guffaw!

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