Dragons, princes and princesses of Cypriot fairy tales arrive at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre this Christmas Eve, coming to life in a unique performance. Up next at the 5th Nicosia International Festival is the performance Once Upon a Time, which features original music and songs by Kostas Cacoyannis and Pambos Koouzalis, a live orchestra, animations, puppets, children’s choir and immersive cinema-like sound.

The production is presented by Nicosia 2030 as the team wishes to embrace the tradition, myths and fairy tales of Cyprus, highlighting local intangible cultural heritage. Two shows will be held on December 24 to Greek-speaking audiences of all ages, first at 11am and then again at 4pm.

The fairy tales presented were recorded by researcher Nearchos Clerides in his book Cypriot Fairy Tales. He compiled the collection through the narratives of 19 men and 14 women from many regions of Cyprus, Paphos to Yialousa. The tales are told by the storytellers at the time of the wheat harvest, when they are collecting the cotton, at the fireplace during the winter months and in the village café.

What’s more, Alpha Cyprus has created an innovative audio podcast based on the Cypriot fairy tales from the book. Through the podcast episodes, the idea for Once Upon a Time was born in a dramaturgy by Stavros Stavrou. Showcased in the performance are the fairy tales I Dragouna Tziai I Vasilopoulla, O Pittortos, I TriantafyllenI, O Dkiamantis and I Stachtoula.

Participating alongside dozens of musicians are also the Anthi Papaphilippou Children’s Choir and the Nicosia Municipality Children’s Choir.

Once Upon a Time

Theatrical performance blending music and animation, based on Cypriot folk and fairy tales. Part of the 5th Nicosia International Festival. December 24. Nicosia Municipal Theatre, Nicosia. 11am and 4pm. In Greek. www.soldoutticketbox.com