The Cyprus Symphony Orchestra joins forces for the first time with distinguished Greek artist Maria Farantouri for a tribute to Mikis Theodorakis. The Magical Night concerts on May 14 and 15 also mark the first performance of the orchestra under the direction of its new artistic director, the internationally acclaimed conductor Myron Michailidis.

Maria Farantouri, the iconic interpreter of Theodorakis, will perform a selection of the composer’s most celebrated songs, alongside seven from the song cycle Odyssey.

Odyssey is the final song cycle composed by the great Greek composer. Its creation was sparked by the emotion Theodorakis experienced, upon first reading the poetry of Kostas Kartelias in 2006, at the age of 81: “When I read Kostas Kartelias’ poems, I suddenly felt a stirring, as I did when I was younger,” the composer says in the album’s presentation. It was only natural that Theodorakis entrusted both the interpretation and recording of these songs to his quintessential interpreter, Farantouri.

“Mikis Theodorakis surprised us with this new, fresh and romantic work. We are accustomed to his austere expression, yet lyricism has always glowed beneath the surface of his songs,” Farantouri has said about the cycle.

The concert culminates in a selection of the composer’s most emblematic songs. The incomparable melodies of Theodorakis interweave creatively with the poetry of leading Greek poets, illuminating the timeless power and universal resonance of his work. The orchestrations, both of the Odyssey cycle and the songs, are by Antonis Sousamoglou and Lazaros Tsavdaridis.

The evening is further enriched by the symphonic ballet suite The Carnival (1953), a work that vividly reflects Theodorakis’ creative assimilation and transformation of Greek popular music. The piece was first presented in November 1953 in Athens by the Athens State Orchestra under the direction of Andreas Paridis. It was later staged as a ballet at the Rome Opera in 1954 by the Greek Dance Theatre of Rallou Manou, with the Rome Opera Orchestra. Subsequent symphonic premieres followed, in Paris in 1958 and London in 1959.

The authentic interpretations of Farantouri, the dynamic presence of the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra, and the interpretative vision of conductor Michailidis offer a unique musical journey, illuminating the multifaceted work of Theodorakis – from the deeply human and intimate creator to the leading Greek composer of global stature.

Magical Night

Cyprus Symphony Orchestra concert where Maria Farantouri performs songs by Mikis Theodorakis. Under the direction of Myron Michailidis. May 14-15. Pallas Theatre, Nicosia. 8.30pm. €30-35. www.cyso.interticket.com