The 27th annual event organised by the University of Cyprus is back, bringing a vibrant array of cultural experiences to the heart of Nicosia. This June and July, the historic Axiothea Mansion will once again open its doors to host a series of events, workshops, and seminars encompassing music, dance, poetry, theatre, and literature.
A Celebration of Arts and Culture
The Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus promises an exciting lineup of performances by both local and international artists. With 11 fascinating productions planned, attendees can look forward to recitals, dance performances, literature and poetry evenings, theatre, and other performance arts. Notably, the Theatrical Workshop of the University of Cyprus will present “The Phoenician Women” by Euripides, translated by Michalis Pieris, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
Artistic Director Stamatia Laoumtzi shares her enthusiasm: “This year our audience will get to know new exceptional artists who will make their first appearance on the stage of the Axiothea Mansion. They will also have the privilege of enjoying internationally renowned artists from Cyprus, Bulgaria, England, France, Germany, Greece, Iran, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Portugal, many of whom are coming to Cyprus for the first time.”
Laoumtzi adds, “They will savour yet again the richness of our unique folk tradition – the music, songs and dances of this land, presented by their devoted proponents who carry the weight of this ancient heritage with dignity and respect. But they will also discover sounds, rhythms and melodies from faraway places that bring unforeseen fascination with something foreign, yet familiar, which feels surprisingly recognisable.”
Opening Night and Highlights
Kicking off the festival’s performances is “Isabelle Rimbaud. My Arthur,” a performance by Efstathia and Vicky Volioti that sheds light on the hitherto unknown personality of Arthur Rimbaud’s younger sister Isabelle. Her memories and experiences offer a different perspective on the life and personality of the great French poet. The performance will begin at 8.30pm and will include surtitles in French.
On Monday, acclaimed London-based drummer and composer Sebastian Rochford and pianist Kit Downes will travel to Cyprus for the first time to present their latest album, titled “A Short Diary,” dedicated to Sebastian’s father, Aberdeen poet Gerard Rochford.
The programme continues on June 10 with a musical performance by the local band The Island Seeds. They will perform “Mediterranean Soul,” a bicommunal collective inspired by Lefteris Moumtzis and the Home of Cooperation. Rooted in the great tradition of soul and gospel and enriched with psychedelic rhythms and contemplations, their sound brings a fresh perspective on the island’s music scene.
The 27th Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus runs from June 2 to July 13 at Axiothea Mansion in Nicosia. Performances start at 8.30pm with tickets priced at €10. For more information, call 22-894531.
