New biography highlights Mikis Theodorakis’s enduring ties with Cyprus

Nicosia, Cyprus. Culture Deputy Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina described Mikis Theodorakis’s bond with Cyprus as an “indestructible relationship with Cyprus” during the launch of a new biography on Tuesday. The Global Mikis Theodorakis was written by journalist Giorgos Logothetis, who was a close friend of the composer.

A lasting connection

Papaellina said Theodorakis considered himself Greek, Cretan and Cypriot. She likened Cyprus and Crete, his burial place, to sister islands and expressed hope that a concert honouring him could take place “in a free and reunited country”.

Cyprus awarded Theodorakis the Medal of Outstanding Contribution in 1999, followed in 2005 by the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III. His name is now borne by streets, schools, parks and squares throughout the areas controlled by the government.

Music and solidarity

Theodorakis’s first visit to Cyprus came in February 1964, shortly after the establishment of the Green Line in Nicosia. He was then working on Axion Esti, whose first official radio broadcast was made by CyBC on May 24 that year.

His involvement with CyBC’s film The Island of Aphrodite resulted in the album Golden Green Leaf. He also composed the music for the National Guard anthem, using lyrics written by Andis Pernaris.

Despite censorship under Greece’s military junta between 1967 and 1974, CyBC aired his music every day.

Following the coup and Turkey’s invasion in 1974, Theodorakis arranged solidarity concerts worldwide, assisted refugees and took part in marches for peace and demonstrations against the occupation.