XpatAthens
Friday, 15 November 2024 14:01
Always Grand | 150 Years of Flavors
New anniversary menu from the Hotel Grande Bretagne
A culinary journey through 150 years of history awaits gastronomy lovers at the Winter Garden City Lounge, until December 31st
Celebrating 150 years of culinary excellence, the Hotel Grande Bretagne marks this milestone with the new anniversary menu "Always Grand|150 Years of Flavors", signed by the twice Michelin-starred Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis. 
From November 6th until December 31st, 2024, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a special gastronomic journey at the Winter Garden City Lounge of the historic Hotel, inspired by the urban culture of old Athens.
Reviving recipes from the mid-20th century, the menu highlights the culinary heritage of the iconic Hotel, with dishes that starred in historic events during its 150 Years of continuous operation. From the authentic “Athinaiki” salad, a symbol of the urban cuisine of the 1970s and the impressive Shrimp fountain to the renowned 'Vol-au-Vent', emanating the elegance of French cuisine, the dishes evoke memories of another era. Paying tribute to the Greek tradition, the menu includes ‘lahanodolmades’ (cabbage rolls), while desserts such as nougatine, which traveled from the great European courtyards to the Athenian salons, complete the unparalleled journey from the past to the present, captivating even the most discerning palates. 
Guests can also enjoy the anniversary afternoon tea, masterfully curated by Pastry Chef Alexandros Koufas, adding a nostalgic touch of authentic Athenian glamour.
Discover the anniversary menu "Always Grand|150 Years of Flavors", an exciting culinary journey that uniquely connects the past with the present, through unique dishes that remain classic and beloved.
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Monday, 03 March 2025 17:59
Innerbloom - Female-Led Business & Entrepreneurship
Through personalized mentorship, practical resources, and a supportive network, Innerbloom helps women design a path to professional fulfillment that harmonizes with their life’s purpose and well-being. Our mission is to offer a balance between strategic guidance and mindful, compassionate support.
Whether you’re launching a new business, scaling an existing one, or redefining your purpose for doing business, Innerbloom is about facilitating your journey, every step of the way.
We create a nurturing, open and transformative space where we empower women to grow their dreams into thriving, sustainable ventures. We believe in combining business acumen with a heart-centered approach, recognizing the individually unique talents, aspirations, and challenges of each woman.
Whether you’re launching a new business, scaling an existing one, or redefining your purpose for doing business, Innerbloom is about facilitating your journey, every step of the way.
We create a nurturing, open and transformative space where we empower women to grow their dreams into thriving, sustainable ventures. We believe in combining business acumen with a heart-centered approach, recognizing the individually unique talents, aspirations, and challenges of each woman.
We don’t just help you build your business, we work with you to refine and elevate it, assuring it reflects your vision and your highest potential. Through targeted strategies that enhance growth, refine impact, and ensure sustainability, we want you to blossom at your own pace, surrounded by like-minded women on similar journeys.
Learn more and get in touch on our website: https://www.innerbloom.gr/
Learn more and get in touch on our website: https://www.innerbloom.gr/
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Featured Greek Businesses
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Monday, 11 November 2024 13:29
"The Gaze": A Solo Exhibition By Yiannis Metzikof At The Hellenic American Union
The Hellenic American Union presents the solo art exhibition of the renowned painter and set designer, Yiannis Metzikof, titled "The Gaze". The exhibition is curated by art historian Iris Kritikou.
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Events In Athens
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Monday, 11 November 2024 13:24
How To Unlock & Take Advantage Of Your Full Potential
Reaching your full potential isn’t about overnight success; it’s about steadily building habits, and exploring new ways to grow. Each of us has a unique mix of talents and strengths, and discovering how to leverage them can lead to both personal and professional fulfillment. Here are key steps to help you unlock your potential and thrive.
1. Define Your Goals with Purpose
Unlocking your potential starts with a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. Setting purposeful goals gives you direction and helps you prioritize your efforts. Goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). This way, you’re working toward objectives that are both inspiring and practical.
Once you set your goals, break them into smaller steps. For example, if your goal is to become proficient in a new skill, map out weekly or monthly milestones to make progress feel more attainable and motivating.
2. Identify & Leverage Your Strengths
Understanding your strengths is key to tapping into your full potential. Reflect on the areas where you excel, what activities you enjoy, and where you’ve received positive feedback. Tools like StrengthsFinder or the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can offer insights into your unique strengths and personality traits.
Once you identify your strengths, look for ways to incorporate them into your goals and daily tasks. Leveraging strengths creates a sense of flow and fulfillment, making your work feel less like a struggle and more like an opportunity to thrive.
3. Develop Self-Discipline & Consistency
The road to achieving your potential requires self-discipline and consistency. This means committing to regular, focused practice and not relying solely on motivation. Even on days when motivation wanes, sticking to routines can keep you moving forward.
Practical ways to build self-discipline include:
- Setting up a daily or weekly schedule with specific times for productive activities.
- Minimizing distractions by designating focused workspaces or using tools like “do not disturb” modes on devices.
- Holding yourself accountable by tracking progress and celebrating small wins.
Consistency doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly; it means showing up and putting in the effort, day by day.
4. Invest in Learning & Growth
Personal and professional growth comes from continuous learning. Stay curious and open to acquiring new knowledge and skills, as learning feeds creativity, keeps you adaptable, and pushes you toward your potential.
To invest in growth:
- Take courses in areas that interest or challenge you.
- Read books, listen to podcasts, and attend seminars or workshops.
- Seek out mentors or join communities where you can learn from others’ experiences and insights.
The more you learn, the better equipped you are to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and expanded skill set.
5. Embrace Feedback & Constructive Criticism
Feedback, especially when constructive, is one of the most powerful tools for growth. Rather than seeing criticism as a setback, view it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Ask for feedback from people you respect, and don’t shy away from constructive advice.
When receiving feedback:
- Listen openly, without reacting defensively.
- Reflect on the feedback and assess how it aligns with your goals.
- Identify actionable steps to implement improvements.
Embracing feedback and adjusting accordingly helps you continuously evolve and refine your strengths.
6. Focus on Well-Being & Balance
Taking advantage of your potential requires balance. Burning out from overworking or neglecting self-care can hinder your progress and keep you from achieving sustainable growth. Make time for physical, mental, and emotional well-being to keep yourself energized and motivated.
Some ways to prioritize well-being include:
- Practicing regular physical activity, like exercise or yoga, to relieve stress and boost energy.
- Setting aside time for mindfulness practices such as meditation or journaling to clear your mind.
- Ensuring you get adequate rest and relaxation to recharge.
A well-balanced approach gives you the resilience to handle challenges and the energy to pursue your goals wholeheartedly.
Reaching your full potential is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and continual growth. By setting clear goals, cultivating a growth mindset, building supportive networks, and maintaining balance, you can tap into your unique strengths and create lasting, fulfilling progress. With each small step, you’ll find yourself closer to becoming the best version of yourself.
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Tips & Advice
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Monday, 11 November 2024 12:51
Why Athens Is One Of The Most Accessible Cities To Explore
Athens, a city where ancient history and vibrant modern life come together, is incredibly accessible for visitors, whether they choose to explore on foot or via public transport. With a walkable city center and a diverse public transportation system, Athens offers an easy and affordable way to experience its culture, history, and neighborhoods.
Here’s a closer look at why Athens is one of the most accessible cities in Europe.
A Walkable, Historic City Center
Athens’ city center is a pedestrian’s dream. With key historical areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma all within a short distance of each other, it’s possible to walk between major landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Ancient Agora. Streets like Dionysiou Areopagitou and Apostolou Pavlou are dedicated pedestrian paths, making it easy to explore while enjoying unobstructed views of ancient ruins, lively street musicians, and quaint cafés.
Exploring on foot lets you truly immerse yourself in Athenian culture. From admiring street art in Psyri to savoring freshly baked pastries from local bakeries, walking in Athens offers unique moments that can’t be experienced from behind a car window. The layout encourages a relaxed, exploratory pace that captures the city’s friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
The Athens Metro System
For those who want to venture further or take a break from walking, the Athens Metro offers a convenient, affordable, and efficient solution. The metro system has 3 main lines:
- Line 1 (Green Line - Ilektrikos)
Also known as the "Ilektrikos" or electric railway, Line 1 is the oldest of the metro lines, originally built in 1869. It connects Kifisia in the northern suburbs to Piraeus Port in the south, making it ideal for travelers arriving or departing by ferry. Line 1 passes through Monastiraki and Thissio, two stations near the Acropolis and the vibrant center, making it a great option for tourists. - Line 2 (Red Line)
The Red Line runs from Anthoupoli in the west to Elliniko in the south, providing convenient access to major landmarks and hubs like Syntagma Square and Omonia Square. This line connects the historic center with modern neighborhoods and the southern suburbs, where you can catch the tram to the beachside areas. Stops like Acropoli make this line especially popular with visitors, as it leads directly to the New Acropolis Museum. - Line 3 (Blue Line)
The Blue Line extends from Nikaia in the southwest to Athens International Airport in the east, making it the primary connection between the city and the airport. Along the way, Line 3 passes through Monastiraki and Syntagma, key stops for exploring central Athens. This line is incredibly convenient for international travelers, providing a direct route between the airport and Athens’ main attractions.
The metro is modern, clean, and easy to navigate, with signs in both Greek and English. It’s also well-maintained and includes archaeological displays at certain stations, giving riders a glimpse into Athens’ past as they travel.
The Tram System: A Scenic Coastal Ride
For those who wish to explore the coastal areas of Athens, the tram is a perfect choice. The Athens tram system has 2 main lines, both offering scenic routes that connect the city center with seaside neighborhoods:
- Line T6 (Syntagma to Pikrodafni)
This line runs from Syntagma Square in the city center to Pikrodafni, connecting various neighborhoods in between. It’s a popular choice for those looking to explore more residential areas of Athens while enjoying a slower-paced ride through the city. - Line T7 (Asklipio Voulas to Agia Triada)
The T7 line connects the southern suburbs, from Asklipio Voulas in Voula to Agia Triada in Piraeus, traveling along the scenic Athenian Riviera. This line is especially enjoyable in the warmer months, providing direct access to beaches and coastal cafés. If you’re in the mood for a relaxed day along the Mediterranean, the tram offers a comfortable way to reach Athens’ beautiful coastal destinations.
Buses and Trolleybuses: Covering Every Corner of Athens
Athens has an extensive bus and trolleybus network that covers nearly every corner of the city and its suburbs. Buses and trolleybuses run throughout the day, though service can vary based on the route and time. Some buses run 24 hours, which is helpful for those needing late-night transport, especially to and from the airport.
The bus network can be a bit challenging for first-time visitors, as routes are numerous and schedules can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. However, using apps like OASA Telematics or Moovit can help you track bus locations in real-time. Buses are generally affordable and offer a way to explore residential neighborhoods, lesser-known spots, and more outlying areas.
Important Tips for Public Transport in Athens
While Athens’ public transport options are generally reliable, it’s worth noting that service hours can vary. Metro trains run from early morning until around midnight, with extended hours on weekends, while buses and trams typically follow similar hours. However, late-night service is limited, so it’s wise to plan ahead if you’re out late.
For convenience, travelers can purchase an “Ath.ena” card, which offers access across all public transportation systems and can be reloaded as needed. Tickets are reasonably priced, and there are options for single rides, day passes, and even weekly passes, making it an economical choice for getting around the city.
Overall Accessibility and Flexibility
Despite occasional scheduling limitations, Athens remains highly accessible and easy to navigate. Its compact city center, combined with varied public transport options, allows visitors to explore at their own pace, whether they prefer walking or a quicker ride. The city’s emphasis on pedestrian-friendly zones, coupled with its transportation network, means you can immerse yourself in its history, culture, and scenic beauty without the hassle of renting a car.
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Everyday Tips & How To’s
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Monday, 11 November 2024 11:17
Happy Anniversary - Group Show At FokiaNou Art Space
FokiaNou Art Space is celebrating ten years of operation with a group exhibition entitled “Happy Anniversary”. A large group of Greek and foreign artists, who have held solo or two-person shows in the space, will participate with works in all media in a colorful and joyful birthday party.
FokiaNou Art Space began in 2014 as Fo Kia Nou 24/7, founded by the visual artist Blanka Amezkua as one of the first independent artist-run spaces in Athens. Having held a two-person exhibition there, which sealed their collaboration, Panagiotis Voulgaris and Mary Cox took over as directors and curators in the fall of 2016. Housed on the 7th floor of an old apartment in Pagrati, the space has held exhibitions, performances, workshops and other projects consistently throughout the last ten years as well as promoting cross-cultural collaboration between Greek and foreign artists. FokiaNou participated twice, in 2019 and 2023, in Supermarket, Stockholm Independent Art Fair, providing an opportunity for local artists to show their work internationally. Through its many open calls, such as the annual exhibition on the theme of Athens, the space has drawn a steady and growing community of artists and art enthusiasts. Join us in looking back on ten years of FokiaNou, which primarily celebrates the power of artists when they take matters into their own hands.
Curators: Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris
Participating artists: Blanka Amezkua, John Bicknell, Maria Bourbou, Mary Cox, Susan Daboll, Anastasia Denos, Sarah Ettlinger, Chrysostomos Galathris, Dimitra Gounari, Jane Grover, Chris Hawtin, Marietta Kallona, Nina Kotamanidou, Loula Leventi, Maria Letsiou, Dimitra Maltabe, Despoina Pantazi, Dionisios Pappas, Nikos Podias, Caroline Pradal, Marina Rovithi, Geeta Roopnarine, Christian Schmid, Stella Sevastopoulou, Ioanna Terlidou, Iliana Theodoropoulou, Georgia Maggy Touliatou, Ira Vlahaki, Panagiotis Voulgaris, Gregoria Vryttia, Erika Winstone, Piyi Wong, Kiveli Zachariou
Hours: Thursday – Saturday, 17.00 -20.00
Opening: Thursday, 14 November, 18.00
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Events In Athens
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Wednesday, 06 November 2024 12:06
Glamor, Glitz & Giving Gala - AWOG Greece
We are thrilled to invite you to a night of celebration, impact, and dancing at the AWOG 2024 GALA Fundraiser!
Saturday, November 23, 2024 - 8:00 PM
Saturday, November 23, 2024 - 8:00 PM
Athens Armed Forces Officers' Club, Rigilis 1 Street
Elegant cocktail - dress to impress & dance the night away!
Join us for an unforgettable evening where philanthropy meets fun as we come together to celebrate our commitment to community, social impact, and women's leadership.
Highlights of the evening:
Join us for an unforgettable evening where philanthropy meets fun as we come together to celebrate our commitment to community, social impact, and women's leadership.
Highlights of the evening:
- A welcome drink and a 4-course buffet dining experience including salads, main and side dishes, a carving station, and dessert.
- Unlimited soft drinks and wine to keep the celebration flowing.
- Not one, but two incredible DJs spinning tracks to keep you dancing all night long.
AlphaBank Account: IBAN GR6201401430143002002004270
IRIS PAYMENTS: AWOG Tax Number (A.Φ.M.): 090169569
(*Please note that all transfer fees/charges must be covered above ticket cost. Failure to cover these expenses, will result in your reservation not being valid)
Upon payment, please note your surname on the bank subject line and email your payment receipt at: info@awogreece.org
Proceeds from the evening will go directly to supporting AWOG's charity initiatives and community programs. Let's make this night one to remember, while contributing to a cause that matters!
Thank you for being part of this meaningful celebration -- we can't wait to see you on the dance floor!
Learn more about this organization here.
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Events In Athens
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Wednesday, 06 November 2024 11:47
Armatomenoi Moraites – Nafplio 1822 – Staikos Staikopoulos
The Armatomenoi (Armed) Moraites Association was founded in 2020 in the Municipality of Nafplio by Konstantinos Dimoulis. It aims is to exalt patriotic sentiment whilst highlighting the historical events of the Greek revolution of 1821, its heroes and especially Staikos Staikopoulos, conqueror of the Palamidi Fortress.
Proud and deeply influenced by the history of his city, Konstantinos Dimoulis wanted to establish an association of individuals who honour and respect the past and believe in keeping tradition alive in the present. As expected, a significant number responded, resulting in the association currently boasting 70 active members.
Preserving History: The Traditional Attire and Equipment of the Armatomenoi Moraites
The Armatomenoi Moraites march proudly, dressed in their traditional Moraitic costumes from the Peloponnese, bearing seven flags that symbolise important facets of their history. The gentlemen of the association don the traditional ‘foustanellas’, (traditional pleated skirt-like garments) equipped with ‘Karyophiles’ (rifles), ‘Koumpouras’ (pistols) and ‘Pala’ (swords). The ladies dress in traditional costumes, from more elaborately decorated garments to simpler versions, often embellished with buttons.
Commemorating Greek History: The Armatomenoi Moraites
The association made its inaugural appearance on October 28, 2021, in Nafplio. Since that time, it has been actively involved in various commemorative events significant to the area, including the celebration of the city's liberation on November 30 at Palamidi, the memorial event honouring Ioannis Kapodistrias, and the parade held on March 25, marking the anniversary of the Greek revolution. They attended Zatouna, the birthplace of the hero Staikos Staikopoulos, Astros Kynourias, for the anniversary of the 3rd National Assembly, Thessaloniki for the October 28 parade, and Tripoli for the anniversary of its liberation.
A Momentous Reunion: The Return of the Hero's Sword to Nafplio
The association, in collaboration with the Municipality of Nafplio, organised a painting exhibition at the Parliament in March 2022, focusing on the hero Staikos Staikopoulos. Additionally, another painting exhibition took place at the War Museum in November 2022, where, after 197 years, the sword of our Hero—the only surviving relic, in Agia Triada of Tinos—was returned and displayed in Nafplio.
Bridging Cultures: The Armatomenoi Moraites Association Expands to Include Philhellenes
In 2024, a new section was established in the association, for ‘Philhellenes’ – foreign nationals residing in our country who hold a deep respect for our history and honour our heritage.
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Wednesday, 06 November 2024 10:47
Athens English Comedy Club - Sunday November 10th!
Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece!
In the last 5+ years, the Athens English Comedy Club has hosted lineup shows, open mic shows, online competitions, and comedy workshops, with *130* local and international comedians from *28 countries*
Join us on Sunday, November 10th, and enjoy an international lineup of comedians! It'll be a mix of everything. A potluck of comedy. Colourful, comedic, chaos!
MC: Odysseas Deniz Ürem
Headliner: Anu Vaidyanathan
And: Athina Kefalopoulos, Jim Botsas, Dimitris Christodoulou, Line Didelot, Lina Thomopoulou
*The show is in English*
ABOUT ANU
Anu Vaidyanathan is a comedian, Doctor of Engineering, and an endurance athlete who was both the first person from India to complete an Ironman Triathlon AND the first Asian woman to complete an Ultraman (10k swim, 420k bike, 84.4k run). She reallllly doesn't do things in halves, friends!
Her debut comedy hour 'BC:AD | Before Children, After Diapers' has done two runs at the Edinburgh Fringe (2023 & 2024), while this year she also debuted her theatre show "Menagerie" at the Edinburgh Fringe as well.
"Super and funny", Phoebe Waller-Bridge
"Refreshingly frank, relatable, and inspiring", Fringe Biscuit
"A cathartic whirlwind" Entertainment focus
She has gigged across greater Europe and London, while she has trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and Ecole Philippe Gaulier in France.
Anu is also a filmmaker and engineer whose memoir 'Anywhere But Home' was long-listed for the Mumbai Film Festival’s word-to-screen market in 2016. Her feature scripts have found themselves at the final rounds at Sundance and Rotterdam. Her book and films are available on Amazon and on request.
Find Anu on Instagram, HERE!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Date: Sunday, November 10th
Time: 21:00 (Doors open 20:40)
Tickets:
€10 early-bird | €15 online | €20 at the door
We also offer 3 free tickets per show to persons with disabilities or unemployed persons (email/phone reservation required).
Duration: 1h30 + interval
Recommended for ages 16+
Address: ELIART Theater - Konstantinoupoleos 127 (closest to Kerameikos and Metaxourgeio metro stations).
The theatre is wheelchair accessible.
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Events In Athens
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Wednesday, 06 November 2024 10:25
"No, Jazz Saturdays" At Theatre Of The No
THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English speaking theatre, launches "NO, JAZZ SATURDAYS" featuring the internationally acclaimed saxophonist Gilad Atzmon, who will perform and curate the November sessions. Atzmon is regarded as a pioneer for blending contemporary jazz with traditional Eastern music and has collaborated with some of the most recognizable names in music, including Pink Floyd, Paul McCartney, and Robert Wyatt.
Robert Wyatt, writing for The Guardian, described him as "the greatest living musician on the planet."
Gilad Atzmon will make two exclusive performances: on Saturday, November 9th with the "Jim Kassavetis Quartet" and on November 30nd with "The Ultimate Duo" offering an unparalleled jazz experience for enthusiasts. The program continues with renowned artists and rising musicians, presenting a rich musical spectacle with international standards.
Program Details
November 9th: Jim Kassavetis Quartet featuring Gilad Atzmon
Dimitris Kassavetis, a 16-year-old prodigy known for his extensive musical vocabulary, technical excellence, and innovative approach, is undoubtedly jazz's new rising star.
With his impressive presence, Jim Kassavetis will lead the band, supported by the “The Mamas & the Papas” of Greek jazz: jazz mentor and virtuoso Konstantinos Stouraitis on bass, legendary Sera Bellos on drums, and internationally acclaimed jazz star Gilad Atzmon. This ensemble promises an unparalleled musical experience, blending powerful performances and melodic brilliance.
November 16th: Alekos Vretos Quartet – Mediterranean Echoes
Alekos Vretos presents Mediterranean Echoes, an innovative jazz project that breaks tradition by omitting percussion and drums. In this setting, rhythm is implied, allowing the musicians to express through pure melody. The oud and traditional clarinet blend seamlessly with bass and piano, each musician contributing their unique artistry while preserving the original essence of the compositions.
The repertoire features original pieces by all four artists, interwoven with beloved works by Ara Dinkjian, Simon Shaheen, and Anouar Brahem. Audience interaction is key, making each performance an engaging, one-of-a-kind experience in Mediterranean jazz.
Alekos Vretos: Oud, Spiros Nikas: Clarinet, Lambros Papadopoulos: Bass, Dimitris Verdinoglou: Piano
November 23rd: Gypsy Jazz Trio – Konstantinos Mitropoulos
Konstantinos Mitropoulos, renowned guitarist from Gadjo Dilo, forms a trio dedicated to the legendary French gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt and the tradition of Manouche or Gypsy Jazz. Their repertoire includes compositions and arrangements recorded by Reinhardt, merging the retro vibe of the 1930s and '40s with a fresh and creative approach.
Konstantinos Mitropoulos: Guitar, Giorgos Mourikis: Guitar, G. Roulos: Double Bass
November 30th: The Ultimate Duo – Yiannis Papadopoulos & Gilad Atzmon
From Baroque to Tango, from Astor Piazzolla to John Coltrane, and back to Bach, Yiannis Papadopoulos is one of the most creative musicians on the Greek scene. A virtuoso yet sensitive artist, he embodies lyrical, poetic improvisation. He will share the stage with Gilad Atzmon, known for his mastery and pioneering approach to World Jazz, blending Coltrane's music with Mediterranean influences.
Credits:
Photography: Nikos Pagonakis
Poster: Sotiria Bramou
Social Media: Kallia Gerakianaki
Communications & PR: Eleftheria Sakareli
Production: FAIL BETTER PRODUCTIONS
Performance Dates:
Saturdays, November 9th , 16th , 23nd, 30nd at 22:30
Ticket Price: €10
Note: The theatre also offers a bar with affordable prices (beer €2.50, drinks €5)
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Events In Athens
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