The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra in Cyprus for the cultural event of the year

Bank of Cyprus sponsors of the concert, on top of its Platinum Sponsorship of Paphos 2017

Τhe historical Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, a world-class music ensemble, has chosen Paphos for this years’ “Concert of Europe”, which will take place at the Paphos Castle on the 1st of May 2017.

Paphos 2017 is a leading event that renders Paphos the focal point of European Culture for 2017. As such, it leaves behind significant infrastructure –both physical and “soft”- that promises to raise the level of Paphos, and through Paphos, of Cyprus, as a cultural destination. The Orchestra participates to the annual “Concert of Europe”, hosted each time in great historical places that have been linked with outstanding cultural achievements, in various cities of Europe.

With these performances, focus is given to the cultural associations and similarities of the members of the European family. The concert will be broadcasted live by the German national television and other stations in Europe, and will be retransmitted in Asia and the Americas in the following days.

Also, during the break of the live broadcast, the audience can enjoy a documentary dedicated to the unique beauty of the city that is chosen to host the annual concert of the famous Berlin Orchestra. The artistic director of the Philharmonic Orchestra has been for years Conductor Herbert von Karajan, making the Orchestra famous all over the world and shaping its identity.

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The first casino in Cyprus Kritou Terra

The first casino in Cyprus operated in our village, Kritou Terra. It was housed in a building which had been constructed between the years 1860 and 1870, and which is located east of the school. The casino began operating during the Turkish occupation, in particular in 1878, and stopped operating at the beginning of the 20th century. The maintenance of the building has been undertaken by the Department of Antiquities.    

This pioneering idea at the time belonged to our fellow villager, Savvas Makrides, who also managed the operation of the casino. Describing this special venture, the following words were written about Makrides: “He dared to do the unthinkable for the time by bringing women from Turkey, Syria and Lebanon, who did belly dancing at the casino while the customers were playing cards and gambling in general”.  

As it is distinctively mentioned, the visitors of the casino were mainly Turks, as well as the “elite of the Middle East”. Among those who added a special glamour to the casino with their presence was the king of Egypt, Namouk.

What is one worth noticing are the frescos on the internal walls of the casino, whose themes are inspired by history and tradition. One of the frescos depicts scenes from the arrest of the Greek Revolution hero, Athanasios Diakos. In particular, one can notice the arrest of the hero and two armed Turkish soldiers. Depicted on the other fresco is the well-known popular hero, Koutalianos, and this fresco was made in his honour when he visited the community in 1896.

Source: Community Council Kritou Terra

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Higher Hotel Institute of Cyprus Training Restaurant

The Higher Hotel Institute, Cyprus is proud to announce the re-opening of its Student Training Restaurant as from the 07/02/2017. The Restaurant will be open to the public for lunch from 13:30 until 15:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and charges are set at cost price.  Places are limited and you are advised to reserve a table in advance.

The Restaurant is operated by students under the supervision of their Instructors. It will continue to offer a superb variety of culinary delights for you to experience. During the Spring Semester, the restaurant will feature Cypriot Cuisine and other cuisines that have influenced it through the centuries.

For reservations TEL.: 22404847 and 22404800 FAX: 22314672

Note: Lenten dishes will be offered during the Lenten fast. (28/02/2017 – 13/04/2017)

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The creators behind the scenes Pafos2017 Opening Ceremony

A very important part of every successful European Capital of Culture is its Opening Ceremony, which is always awaited with special interest, since it is also the beginning of what will follow in the town that carries this prestigious title.

The Pafos Opening Ceremony is inspired by the town’s myths, beginning with the founding myth of Pygmalion and Galatea, and reveals the history and multiculturalism of Pafos, as an integral part of the broader European Culture. Who is, though, the creative team which, together with the artistic team of the Pafos2017 Organisation, designed this important moment of the European Capital of Culture – Pafos2017?

The premiere of Pafos2017, on the 28th of January, at the restored main square of Pafos, at 19.00, was designed and implemented by a Creative Team of Cypriot artists, in collaboration with the team of the Walk the Plank company from the United Kingdom. This team has been working for almost two years for the creation of the ceremony.

The well-known British director, Liz Pugh, is the Head of the team and one of the founders of Walk the Plank, a team specialising in large scale events. With a presence in many festivals and international open space events, Liz Pugh, together with John Wassell, have created the company Walk the Plank, which has associates in many countries. It is a team that has left its mark through its original ideas and activities, which involve tens of hundreds of people in countries where they set up their shows/events. 

Works by the team, enhanced in production by John Wassel, have received distinctions in many festivals in the United Kingdom, events organised by the Commonwealth and European Capitals of Culture, such as London, Manchester and Turku in Finland. They are always distinguished for their high level in shows, the integration of artists from the local community and the use of numerous factors, such as pyrotechnics, light and music.

The Walk the Plank team have integrated in the design of the Opening Ceremony performance Cypriot and foreign artists, who have enriched and creatively strengthened, with their own features, the multifaceted Opening show. Extremely important contributions are those of Efi Kyprianidou for the composition of texts and their dramatisation, the musician Christina Athinodorou, who, in her own unique way, ‘signs’ the composition, orchestration, editing and coordinating of the Opening Ceremony. In the artistic direction of the event, in the role of the co-director, is Neoklis Neokleous, one of the most important Cypriot actors and directors, who faithfully serves the theatre for 23 years and has over ten performances at Epidaurus and as many television hits. George Papadopoulos is responsible for the very particular stage sets, which cover a vast area in the Town Hall Square,  and Miranda Throdoridou for the costumes; both artists have excelled in theatre. Apart from music, the ceremony includes dance, parades, as well as many projections and a wider visual environment. The design and 3D Mapping were undertaken by Vera Papastavrou and Kyriakos Kasoulides, who guarantee a unique spectacle. Both the design and the implementation of lighting and sound are made by experienced artists from the United Kingdom.

An extremely important part of the production is that of the dance, since the dancers perform on the large stage. Fifteen dancers from Cyprus and Israel will perform the roles of Pygmalion and Galatea, choreographed and taught by the famous Israeli choreographer and dancer Ido Tadmor. Together with his assistant, Jhonathan Hay Soutchy, this great artist choreographs 40 teenager dancers from Pafos’ schools, which are coordinated by the Organisation Dance Culture Pafos. The Embassy of Israel greatly enhances the cooperation of the Pafos dancers with dancers from Israel, in an attempt to create tighter bonds between the two artistic teams, which will extend beyond 2017.

Apart from the above associates, there are tens more contributing to the creation of this great event, which will mark the beginning of the year.

Pafos2017 Official Platinum Sponsor: Bank of Cyprus

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Speech of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nicos Anastasiades at the Opening Ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017

It is with a sense of joy and honour that I attend the opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Pafos 2017 and convey the best wishes of the President of the Republic, who, despite his strong desire to be here with us tonight, this was not possible due to other commitments.

This opening ceremony, which is inspired by the founding myths of the city’s birth, is undoubtedly a historic moment not only for Pafos but for the whole of Cyprus.

With the motto “Linking Continents, Bridging Cultures”, Pafos, as the European Capital of Culture for 2017, sends, at both national and international level, its own strong messages of culture and peace.

At a time where humanity is faced with the scourge of terrorism, our neighbouring regions suffer armed conflicts and immigrants face a daily struggle under adverse conditions with the hope for a better tomorrow, the thematic programme of actions of the European Capital of Culture 2017, sends messages of hope, promoting peace through Art and Culture.

Peace and reunification, which we also seek for our country, through the ongoing process of intensive negotiations and talks.

We hope that our efforts will be successful, so that all legal residents of this country can coexist in a secure and prosperous environment, where diversity and human rights are respected. We will never stop working towards this direction and that is why we never stop hoping.

From the beginning, the Government actively supported the implementation of the actions carried out by the European Capital of Culture, strengthening in various ways the actions of the people within the Organisation Pafos 2017.

The fact that Pafos, the smallest Capital of Culture in terms of population, assumed the mission to organise an event of such magnitude and managed to create the demanding programme such an institution requires, with a relatively low budget compared to other similar events in Europe, without falling short of quality artists and cultural activities, is worth every credit.

Despite the extremely tight time schedule and the tough financial conditions, we have successfully arrived to this day, thanks to the collective effort, systematic work and cooperation of the Organisation Pafos 2017, with organised social actors and, especially, artists and creators from Cyprus and abroad, schools, volunteers, sponsors etc., as well as the support of the state.

Success through the unification of forces and collaboration for the common good, sends everyone broader messages.

More specifically, the cultural programme of Pafos 2017 received through the Ministry of Education and Culture a total funding of 5 million euro, while thanks to the contribution of the state, a series of cultural infrastructures in the area of Pafos were created and upgraded.

The collaboration between Education and Culture has also been remarkable and has constituted an important parameter of the entire programme.

On the occasion of this cultural event, the Ministry of Education and Culture has set as emphasised target for the year the strengthening of the relation between education and culture, encouraging our schools to take relevant initiatives. In this framework, hundreds of cultural actions from schools all around Cyprus have already been organised and scheduled for the following period.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Pafos, as an “Open Air Factory”, becomes a huge open air stage, on which its historical tradition coexists and converses with modern ways of thinking and creating. Tonight’s Opening Ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Pafos 2017, is a celebration that widens the spiritual and cultural horizons of the city through the interaction between yesterday and today. A celebration that warmly embraces intercultural communication between citizens and artists-creators, in Cyprus, Europe and the world.

I would like to congratulate the Chairman and the Members of the Organisation Pafos 2017 for their valuable and decisive contribution to this great and important event. I would also like to congratulate the local government, as well as all actors involved, whose services have helped materialise this effort. Congratulations, also, to the students, educators and volunteers for their support, as well as the sponsors for funding this undertaking. Finally, I would like to congratulate the artists-creators whose participation Links Continents, Bridges Cultures.

With a certainty that the scheduled actions of the European Capital of Culture Pafos 2017 will capture the interest of every European citizen, I wish every success for the future.  

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Speech of the Mayor of Pafos Mr. Fedonas Fedonos

Your Beatitude, Mr. President of the Republic, Distinguished guests, Ladies and gentlemen,

Pafos has always been proud of its history and culture. But tonight, as a host city of the biggest European celebration of culture, together with Aarhus in Denmark, justifiably feels even prouder.

An ancient birthplace of culture in Europe, Pafos is not only a Homeric city, birthplace of Aphrodite, motherland of poets and philosophers. It is the first European city to receive Christianity from Apostle Paul, it is the city who has been a crossroads and meeting point of religions and cultures, as well as capital of Cyprus for 500 years during the Hellenic and Roman periods. The archaeological sites – Classical, Roman, Byzantine, Frankish and Ottoman – serve as proof. Its sky is marked by bell towers and minarets, in a timeless call for peace, coexistence and solidarity.

Europe, with its Greek name, is a familiar place to Cyprus and Pafos, since its culture combines the Greek, the Roman and the Christian spirit. A combination where the Greek spirit contributed the concepts of freedom, truth and beauty, the Roman spirit contributed the concepts of state and rule of law, and Christianity contributed the concepts of faith and love. Being a vessel of this common culture, Pafos as a European Capital of Culture aspires to leave its mark on the history of one of the most important institutions of the European Union, as a model of a small city that uses culture as its means to unify its strengths and capabilities to achieve its rebirth. Culture as a source of inspiration and creation, but also as a channel of change, has served as an engine for growth and progress in various periods of the city’s long history. This time, with the crucial co-financing of main infrastructure and upgrading projects by the European Union and the Cypriot government, we build the city’s present and future, with 2017 serving as a symbolic beginning and, at the same time, as a milestone and a starting point in the history of Pafos.

Our sense of pride for the title European Capital of Culture shall not divert us to a course centred around Pafos or Cyprus only. Aware of the fact that national identity and European conscience can coexist, we look forward to seeing the Open Air Factory of Pafos showcase and strengthen diversity as a basic characteristic of the European culture, and promote the understanding of cultural differences and similarities. Yes, we are proud of our city, but we know well that it owes a lot to the mixing of different cultures in its region and to the fact that it kept its door open to new elements and multiplexity in various sectors. Being well aware of who we are and where we come from, we invite all citizens of Europe, but also of Cyprus’s geographic region, to come to our city to give and take, making culture a great source of inspiration, creation and change in people’s lives and in the course of societies.

It is no coincidence that the motto of the programme of Pafos as a European Capital of Culture is “Linking Continents – Bridging Cultures”. A crossroads of the Eastern Mediterranean throughout the centuries, Pafos, through its modern multicultural reality aspires to become the first European Capital of Culture connecting the East and the West, acting through its networks and teams as a cultural bridge between Europe and the Middle East. Being a window of the European Union to the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus can contribute to the mitigation of the issues its wider region is faced with, if it radiates the principles of the European culture to the people and communities of our troubled neighbourhood, with a special emphasis on the respect of human life, love, the equality of genders and the respect for diversity.

Your Beatitude,

Ladies and gentlemen,

For the Pafos 2017 dream to come true, a large dedicated group of people both inside and outside Pafos has been working relentlessly, and I wish to warmly thank them all. I would specifically like to thank the Chairman and members of the Administrative Board of the Organisation Pafos2017 as well as its officials and the hundreds of volunteers.

Our aim and promise is to keep Pafos at the forefront of cultural life. The European Capital of Culture is the beginning, the starting point. We want Pafos, the southernmost point of Europe, to remain a recognised centre of the European culture. To this purpose, we promise to give continuity to what starts symbolically tonight.

I welcome you all. I am convinced that 2017 will be a milestone in the history of Pafos, which proudly invites you to enjoy the unique experience the European Capital of Culture has to offer.

Thank you.

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Pafos2017 Chairman’s Speech Dr.Christos Patsalides

Your Excellency Mr. President of the Republic of Cyprus, Your Beatitude, your Holiness, Mr. Commissioner of the European Commission, Dear Leaders of Parliamentary Parties, Dear Ministers, Dear Ambassadors, Dear Members of the Parliament, Dear Mayors of Pafos, Geroskipou and Pegeia, Dear Mayors and representatives of other European cities, Distinguished guests from Cyprus and Europe, Dear fellow citizens,

Dear friends,

Welcome to the European Capital of Culture! Welcome to Pafos!

Ladies and gentlemen,

Tonight, Pafos officially assumes the role of the European Capital of Culture.

As Chairman of the Organisation Pafos2017, I am deeply honoured and, at the same time, happy and humbled that my city, our city, the district of Pafos, as well as the whole of Cyprus, officially welcomes tonight the historic title of the European Capital of Culture, a title we share with the city of Aarhus in Denmark.

Tonight, here in Pafos, we welcome Europe and its people, the common culture and the common values which our city, our country, not only are part of, but have also helped shape throughout the centuries.

All the things we have so relentlessly worked for, the vision Pafos and its residents have worked for, tonight turn into reality. Here and now begins a voyage that, in my opinion, will last not only for a year, but for many more years to come.

The opening of the most important cultural institution in the history of Europe, constitutes both an honour and a responsibility for our little Pafos, and at the same time a new prospect and window. The European Capital of Culture’s programme “Open Air Factory” is a unique opportunity to not only create in open air spaces, in special and historical locations, but also an opportunity for us to open our eyes and sensations, to open up and bridge cultures, to diminish the differences between our communities and, of course, to converse and co-create with the rest of Europe’s people and cultures.

The European Capital of Culture is an opportunity for Pafos to become a modern, dynamic city, producing and supporting culture, but, also, inviting and actively involving all its residents and visitors, so that they can take a voyage with the programme of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 to discover actions, events and happenings through which they will discover their own selves, the history and the culture, but also to lay solid foundations for our common future.

The spirit of openness, of bridging and exceeding differences is expressed throughout our programme with a series of projects and actions which create bridges and link Europe, the Mediterranean, the West and the East, rendering Pafos the bridge and meeting point between continents, countries and people.

The Administrative Board of the Organisation Pafos2017 and myself, in my capacity as Chairman, feel especially proud since all this was created under truly difficult circumstances, both financial and social. I would like to firstly thank everyone who has worked during the nomination process, the artistic team and the volunteers. Special thanks to everyone who has worked and contributed to the completion and implementation of the programme, today’s artistic direction, the Organisation’s workforce, my colleagues in the Administrative Board, our proud volunteers, the competent authorities and bodies, the Ministry of Education and Culture, other ministries and authorities, and, of course, the state, the Government, the participating artists and social partners, the sponsors and, above all, the people who believed, embraced, offered and continue to offer towards this vision.

Dear friends,

Indeed, the circumstances under which we had to work from the very first day we assumed our role as Organisation, have been truly difficult and the obstacles have been significant. Many doubted us and did not believe we could succeed. But our passion, our vision for Pafos and our Capital of Culture, gave us the tenacity to work hard and methodically as an Organisation, without too many words, to succeed. And I believe that not only did we succeed, but we feel twice as proud that the European Commission honoured us with the Melina Mercouri Award, and that, as the competent European commission stated in its final evaluation “Pafos is now an example for other small cities of Europe of how they can assume and achieve a successful programme, worthy of the title.”

Ladies and gentlemen,

Tonight, Pafos officially opens its year as a European Capital of Culture, based on its history and myths according to which, Pafos, the result of the union between the Creator, Pygmalion and Galatea can be nothing less than a Piece of Art.

Dear fellow citizens, let’s turn the dream into reality and let’s transform our city into a true Piece of Art of which we can all be proud.

We look forwards, we look into the future and we consider today to be the beginning of a bright and optimistic future, for us, for our city, for Cyprus, for Europe.

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Speech of the European Commissioner  Christos Stylianidis

Your Beatitude, Dear President of the House of Representatives, Dear Mayor, Dear Chairman of the Administrative Board of “Pafos2017”, Distinguished guests, Ladies and gentlemen,

It is with great joy that I am here today, in my capacity as European Commissioner but also as a Cypriot citizen, for the official opening ceremony of the programme of the European Capital of Culture “Pafos 2017”, together with the highest authorities of Pafos and Cyprus.

During this time, where Europe is faced with concern, uncertainty and, even, doubt, Pafos 2017 sends a clear message of transparency and openness of beliefs and horizons, of acceptance of other cultures and diversity, demonstrating the importance of an open society.

Unfortunately, intolerance and discrimination have been on the rise throughout Europe. The fundamental European values and ideals are put to the test. Populism has been gaining ground through manifestos and promises about the exclusion of others.

In view of these challenges, culture can act as a bridge that promotes understanding and tackles mutual distrust. Culture can contribute decisively to the strengthening of our communities and guide us to joint solutions.

Pafos 2017 demonstrates precisely that. With the motto “Linking continents, bridging cultures”, the city makes the promise to create constructive exchanges between people and communities. Between, its citizens, its visitors and its immigrants. But also between the people of Europe and beyond. Highlighting, at the same time, the importance of sustainable tourism.

Since the establishment of the institution in 1980, after a proposal by Melina Mercouri, then Greece’s Minister of Culture, the European Capitals of Culture have been bringing the citizens of Europe closer together. They strengthen the sense of “belonging”. They promote dialogue, transparency, the acceptance of others and exchange, starting at the local level.

Similarly to the European Capitals of Cultures, another important project of the EU, the Erasmus programme, also plays a decisive role in intercultural understanding and the creation of new ties and relations between the youth of Europe. This year, we are proud to celebrate the programme’s 30^th anniversary.

Through such initiatives, we have repeatedly experienced the positive impact of the promotion of new cultural interconnections. Culture has helped communities connect and reconnect, as well as develop long-term relations.

Pafos has experienced the value of cultural exchange. Its rich history comes as a proof. It has always been a gate to the European Mediterranean. Different communities have long been coexisting here. Multiculturalism is simply part of the city’s DNA.

Pafos may be the smallest city to have ever received the title of the European Capital of Culture, but there is no doubt about the very important message it has to offer to the whole of Europe, during these hard times.

I hope that the two European Capitals of Culture for 2017 – Pafos, here in Cyprus, and Aarhus in Denmark – will shed the light to the values of Europe and cultural diversity.

I am proud to see my country host for the first time one of the most precious European initiatives. Pafos 2017 shall, without a doubt, become a bright beacon in this corner of the Mediterranean, showcasing its rich tradition, its myths and its legends, allowing the spotlight to fall on the values of tolerance, diversity and multiculturalism.

Dear Mr. Mayor,

On behalf of the European Commission, I would like to congratulate the city of Pafos for receiving the Melina Mercouri Award, in recognition of the great efforts and excellent work carried out by the team Pafos 2017, as well as the administration of your city, in order to prepare for this year. Please accept this plaque and certificate as a token of our appreciation.

I wish Pafos every success!

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Enchanted Europe the Pygmalion, Galatea, Aphrodite and Paphos Video

“We feel extremely proud, since all this has been created under truly difficult circumstances…!”, stressed the Chairman of Pafos2017, Dr. Christos Patsalides.                                            

The dream has come true! The small city of Pafos is officially the European Capital of Culture for 2017! In a spectacular ceremony held Saturday evening in the city’s restored central square, and despite the bitter cold, tens of hundreds of citizens from Pafos and all over Cyprus – young, old and small children – gathered together to enjoy a unique event. The beautiful set and the exquisite artists, who gave their best on stage, “enchanted” the audiences and stole the show in this magnificent atmosphere of celebration, worthy of the history of the city of Kinyras, which is now at the spotlight of Europe’s “cultural gaze”.

But the highlight of the evening came right at the end of the ceremony, with a unique and unparalleled musical encounter between Alkistis Protopsalti and Doros Demosthenous, accompanied by a multitude of remarkable musicians. Their exceptional performances charmed the music-loving audience of Cyprus, gathered in Pafos from across the country to join in the celebration for the inauguration of the European Capital of Culture, in a spirit of great optimism. The island’s very first capital has now entered a new era of prosperity and growth… sailing on fair winds, with Culture as our beacon and guide, showcasing the rich history of this blessed place with its astonishing cultural heritage.    

The opening ceremony was marked by the presence of 40 representatives from other European Capitals, from several European Embassies in Cyprus as well as 100 foreign media and journalists from Europe and Asia. Apart from the official guests, the ceremony was also attended by the President of the House of Representatives and Acting President of the Republic, the Archbishop of Cyprus and leaders of political parties. 

Deeply moved and proud, Dr. Christos Patsalides, Chairman of the Organisation Pafos2017, was the first to take the floor: “As Chairman of the Organisation Pafos2017, I am deeply honoured and, at the same time, happy and humbled that my city, our city, the district of Pafos, as well as the whole of Cyprus, officially welcomes tonight the historic title of the European Capital of Culture, a title we share with the city of Aarhus in Denmark. Tonight, here in Pafos, we welcome Europe and its people, the common culture and the common values which our city, our country, not only are part of, but have also helped shape throughout the centuries. All the things we have so relentlessly worked for, the vision Pafos and its residents have worked for, tonight turn into reality. Here and now begins a voyage that, in my opinion, will last not only for a year, but for many more years to come. The opening of the most important cultural institution in the history of Europe, constitutes both an honour and a responsibility for our little Pafos, and at the same time a new prospect and window. The European Capital of Culture’s programme “Open Air Factory” is a unique opportunity to not only create in open air spaces, in special and historical locations, but also an opportunity for us to open our eyes and sensations, to open up and bridge cultures, to diminish the differences between our communities and, of course, to converse and co-create with the rest of Europe’s people and cultures. The European Capital of Culture is an opportunity for Pafos to become a modern, dynamic city, producing and supporting culture, but, also, inviting and actively involving all its residents and visitors, so that they can take a voyage with the programme of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 to discover actions, events and happenings through which they will discover their own selves, the history and the culture, but also to lay solid foundations for our common future.”

In his address, the Mayor of Pafos Mr. Fedonas Fedonos stressed the following: “Pafos has always been proud of its history and culture. But tonight, as a host city of the biggest European celebration of culture, together with Aarhus in Denmark, it justifiably feels even prouder… Aware of the fact that national identity and European conscience can coexist, through the Open Air Factory of Culture we aspire and promise to give continuity to what starts symbolically tonight…!”

On his part, European Commissioner Christos Stylianides expressed his joy at attending such an important event, in his capacity as European Commissioner but also as a Cypriot citizen and underlined: “Pafos2017 sends a clear message of transparency and openness of beliefs and horizons, of acceptance of other cultures and diversity, demonstrating the importance of an open society. Pafos has experienced the value of cultural exchange. Its rich history comes as a proof. It has always been a gate to the European Mediterranean. Different communities have long been coexisting here. Multiculturalism is simply part of the city’s DNA. I am proud to see my country host for the first time one of the most precious European initiatives. Pafos2017 shall, without a doubt, become a bright beacon in this corner of the Mediterranean, showcasing its rich tradition, its myths and its legends, allowing the spotlight to fall on the values of tolerance, diversity and multiculturalism.”

The address of the President of the Republic, who is currently abroad, was read out by Mr. Costas Kadis, Minister of Education and Culture: “This opening ceremony, which is inspired by the founding myths of the city’s birth, is undoubtedly a historic moment not only for Pafos but for the whole of Cyprus. With the motto “Linking Continents, Bridging Cultures”, Pafos, as the European Capital of Culture for 2017, sends, at both national and international level, its own strong messages of culture and peace. At a time when humanity is faced with the scourge of terrorism, our neighbouring regions suffer armed conflicts and immigrants face a daily struggle under adverse conditions with the hope for a better tomorrow, the thematic programme of actions of the European Capital of Culture 2017 sends messages of hope, promoting peace through Art and Culture. Peace and reunification, which we also seek for our country, through the ongoing process of intensive negotiations and talks. We hope that our efforts will be successful, so that all legal residents of this country can coexist in a secure and prosperous environment, where diversity and human rights are respected. We will never stop working towards this direction and that is why we never stop hoping. From the beginning, the Government has actively supported the implementation of the actions carried out by the European Capital of Culture, strengthening in various ways the actions of the people within the Organisation Pafos2017. The fact that Pafos, the smallest Capital of Culture in terms of population, assumed the mission to organise an event of such magnitude and managed to create the demanding programme such an institution requires, with a relatively low budget compared to other similar events in Europe, without falling short of quality artists and cultural activities, is worth every credit. Despite the extremely tight time schedule and the tough financial conditions, we have successfully reached this day, thanks to the collective effort, systematic work and cooperation of the Organisation Pafos2017, with organised social actors and, especially, artists and creators from Cyprus and abroad, schools, volunteers, sponsors etc., as well as the support of the State. Success through joining forces and collaboration for the common good, sends everyone broader messages.

More specifically, the cultural programme of Pafos2017 received through the Ministry of Education and Culture a total funding of 5 million euro, while thanks to the contribution of the State, a series of cultural infrastructures in the area of Pafos have been created and upgraded. Synergies between Education and Culture have also been remarkable and have constituted an important parametre of the entire programme. On the occasion of this cultural event, the Ministry of Education and Culture has set as emphasised target for the year the strengthening of the relation between Education and Culture, encouraging our schools to take relevant initiatives. In this framework, hundreds of cultural actions from schools all around Cyprus have already been organised and scheduled for the following period. Pafos, as an “Open Air Factory of Culture”, becomes a huge open air stage, on which its historical tradition coexists and converses with modern ways of thinking and creating. Tonight’s opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 is a celebration that widens the spiritual and cultural horizons of the city through the interaction between yesterday and today. A celebration that warmly embraces intercultural communication between citizens and artists-creators, in Cyprus, Europe and the world. I would like to congratulate the Chairman and the Members of the Organisation Pafos2017 for their valuable and decisive contribution to this great and important event. I would also like to congratulate the local government, as well as all actors involved, whose services have helped materialise this effort. Congratulations, also to the students, educators and volunteers for their support, as well as the sponsors for funding this undertaking. Finally, I would like to congratulate the artists-creators whose participation Links Continents, Bridges Cultures. With a certainty that the scheduled actions of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 will capture the interest of every European citizen, I wish every success for the future.”

The opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 has illustrated, in the most representative way, the history, multiculturalism and modern culture of Pafos, as an integral part of wider European culture. The official… premiere was inspired by the myths of Pafos, starting with the founding myth of Pygmalion and Galatea, to remind us that Pafos itself is a work of art. Dramatisation was employed not only to portray the birth of Pafos, but also to present the core concepts of the Open Air Factory of Culture, such as the “openness” of Pafos at the crossroads of cultures and continents. Protagonists included tens of professional dancers and young people, 315 children from elementary schools, who narrated the history of the birth of Pafos holding beautiful lanterns, as well as volunteers from all across the island. Greek and Turkish Cypriot musicians and singers formed a harmonious ensemble and joined the choir and jazz orchestra from Aarhus, our sister European Capital of Europe. Unique compositions and original adaptations of musical works, choreographies and animation marked the most historic day for culture in Cyprus. 

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Uncover Nicosia Photo competition

Nicosia Tourism Board invites anyone who lives in or has visited Nicosia to take part in the photo competition “Uncover Nicosia”. The aim is to uncover Nicosia’s numerous beauties and fill in the web with photos of the capital.

There are eight contesting categories:
1. Heritage (e.g. Museums, Monuments, Religious and Archaeological sites)
2. Urban Life (e.g. Neighborhoods, street art, street life)
3. Natural environment (e.g. nature, trails, parks, gardens, water)
4. Architecture (modern and old)
5. Food photography (e.g. produce, wine, food)
6. Tradition (e.g. traditional products, customs)
7. Activities (e.g. festivals, sports, markets, events)
8. People (e.g. portraits, traditional professions)

Terms and Conditions:
 The competition will be open from 1/09/2016 until 31/01/2017. Any photos submitted after January 31st will be disqualified.
 Photos should be taken from the city and district of free Nicosia.
 Photos should be send to nicosia@ncci.org.cy and should bear the name of the category and the name of the photographer, in the following form: Heritage_AndreasGeorgiou
 You may send as many photos as you like to compete under any or all of the categories
 The size of the photographs should not be below 2339χ3307pixels, 200dpi.
 Photo collages will not be accepted.
 A photo cannot compete under more than one category.
 All photos submitted to the contest should be captured /taken by the participant personally and therefore the participant should have all corresponding intellectual property rights.
 The participant should have acquired the clear and irrevocable consent of all persons and property and animal owners that may be captured in the submitted photos.
 The Nicosia Tourism Board reserves the right to use and dispose of all photos submitted in the contest for the purposes of promoting the city of Nicosia via the media and social network, on the condition that the name of the photographer shall be stated therein.
 The Nicosia Tourism Board has the absolute discretion to reject any photos with sexual, naked, improper, pornographic, violent,
inappropriate, abusive, racist or indecent content which degrades the human and public decency and morality.
 All suitable photos will be uploaded throughout the duration of the competition on Nicosia Tourism Board’s Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) with the hashtags #mynicosia, #uncovernicosia

Assessment

Each week, our Panel will be choosing the ‘pic of the week’ from the best photos received during the week, which will be announced. At the end of the competition the Panel will choose the winning photo from each category. Our panelists are:
– Paschalis Paschali, Associate Professor, Head – Department of Design and Multimedia, University of Nicosia
– Elena Stylianou, Assistant Professor in Art History and Theory, Department of Arts, European University Cyprus
– George Kyriazis, PhD-Candidate, Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus
– Nicolas Lampouris, Lecturer, Department of Applied Arts, Frederick University
– Kyriaki Costa, Artistic Director, Non-Profit Organization Phaneromenis 70
– Andros Papageorgiou, Senior Tourist Officer, Cyprus Tourism Organisation

Award
– The winning photo of each category will receive 100 euros.
– The top ten photos from each category will be presented at a photo exhibition which is going to take place in the following spring.
– All photos will be used for the promotion of Nicosia in Cyprus and abroad.

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Open Call for participation in the action Bodies in Urban SpacesOpen Call for participation in the action Bodies in Urban Spaces

The Organisation Pafos2017, within the context of its Community Involvement Programme and with the cooperation of the Austrian Embassy and the support of Dance Culture Pafos, invites people aged 16 to 30 years old in good physical condition and flexibility, to attend  an audition for the purpose of participating in the event “Bodies in Urban Spaces”.

THE IDEA

The group of individuals selected will have the opportunity to work with the renowned Austrian artist Willi Dorner and his colleagues in an event to be held on May 10th 2017, which is about body formations in central locations of the town. The event aims at the involvement of the society and the visitors of the town, by way of a walkthrough of the town via an original and creative route.

Willi Dorner specialises in interactive performances in outdoor spaces since 1999 and has worked with the biggest festivals in Europe, America and South Korea (Festival de Marseille, FTA – Festival Trans Amériques Montreal, Dance Umbrella London, Spring dance Utrecht, Crossing the Lines, B:om, etc.)

AUDITIONS

The auditions will take place on Wednesday 15th of February 2017, at 19:00, by Willi Dorner’s associate, Esther Steinkogler, at Klea Pitsillidou’s Ballet School, 4 Megaron street, Pafos.

REHEARSALS

The rehearsals will take place on the following dates:

– Friday 5 May 2017: 17:00 – 20:00

– Saturday 6 May 2017: 10:00 – 19:00

– Sunday 7 May 2017: 10:00 – 19:00

– Monday 8 May 2017: 17:00 – 20:00

– Tuesday 9 May 2017: 17:00 – 20:00

PARTICIPATION

For participation purposes, please send your name, age, a full body photograph, your address, phone number and your email address at: info@pafos2017.eu.

For more information please call 2693 2017.

DEADLINE

The deadline for the submission of proposals is Sunday 12th of February 2017.

Photography_Lisa Rastl

The post Open Call for participation in the action Bodies in Urban Spaces appeared first on Cyprus Highlights.

FORGOTTEN TASTES OF CYPRUS

Salads

Bean and Olive Oil Salad, Rocket and “Louvana” Salad, Village Salad, Tomato Salad with Οnion and Dry Mint, Mushroom Salad, Fried Cauliflower Salad, Pickles, Hummus, “Tahini”, “Elies Tsakistes”

Hot Dishes

Cuttlefish with Spinach, Chicken in Tomato Sauce, Village Pasta, Pork with Beetroots, Potatoes/ “Poulles”/”Yelermasi”  “Antinakta”, “Ttavas Lefkaritikos”, Eggplants with Tomatoes and Onions, Fried Black-Eyed Beans with “Kokkinokoloko”

Bread

“Koullouri”

Deserts

“Tertzellouthkia”, Rolled “Kattimeri”, “Bourekia with Anari Cheese, Fruit Salad

Price 8 euros

Glossary and Some Storytelling

1. “Louvana”: This is a bitter, green leafy vegetable known as Cyprus vetch. This must NOT be confused with the pulse split pea, which is also called louvana in Cyprus. In Cyprus, when the plant is still young and the  louvana leaves tender, they are eaten raw or made into a salad,  dressed with lemon and olive oil. It is a seasonal green, and can be found between late winter to spring. This makes them available on Green Monday (Kathara Deftera), the first day of the Lenten fast.

2. “Elies Tsakistes”: Crushed green olives preserved in olive oil. The flavour is enhanced by the addition of dry coriander seeds, lemon slices and garlic.

3. In traditional Cypriot cookery, the chicken that was used to prepare stews and casseroles was called “Ornitha”. This is a term used to describe a female chicken over one year old. In our Student Training Restaurant we used chicken instead of “ornitha”.

4. “Antinakta”: Method and term used to describe the last steps of frying starchy vegetables. Excess liquid is then removed and red wine and dry coriander are added to the food.  The dish is completed by shaking the ingredients in the pot.

5. “Poulles”: Young kolokasi plant also known as taro. The name kolokasi possibly comes from its Latin name Colocasia esculentum. The oldest reference regarding Cyprus kolokasi is accredited to 12^th May 1191 where kolokasi was served during dinner at the wedding celebration of Richard Lionheart with Berengaria, at Limassol castle (Jeffery, 1926).

Poulles are served “Antinakta” style.

6. “Yelermasi”: Jerusalem artichokes. It was commonly consumed raw, in Kythrea area. Also it was served in the fashion of antinakta.

7. “Ttavas Lefkaritikos”: Tavas is a special clay pot that is used for traditional oven baking. The most famous pots are hand crafted in Kornos village. Lefkaritikos Tavas is a typical regional recipe from the village of Lefkara. Ingredients include lamb, potatoes, onions, tomatoes and cumin that are sealed in the pot and baked for several hours until tender.

8. “Kokkinokoloko”¨Butternut squash. In Cyprus it is only used in a few recipes but its distinctive taste and looks make it easily stand out, with Kolokoti (butternut squash pie) being a classic example.

9. “Tertzellouthkia”: A unique sweet made with the leftovers of bread dough. Rolled to the size of a large button, tersiellouthkia are boiled in grape or carob syrup. The liquid is then served with the cooked dough.

10. Rolled “Kattimeri”: It is a rolled pie with cinnamon, sugar and honey, baked on a metal non-stick surface pan with little or no oil. The technique is similar to the techniques applied in northern Greece’s savoury pies.

11. “Koullouri”: A flavourful bread prepared with the use of yeast. The main flavours are anise, mastic resin, and in some cases cumin.

Jeffery, G., 1926. Cyprus under an English King. London: Zeno  

Evangelatou, F., 2007. Cyprus Country House Recipes. Limassol: Aristos Philis Printers Ltd.

http: //foodmuseum.cs.ucy.ac.cy/web/guest/kypsitiresio

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‘FNL Cup 2017’ – Football National League

We are in the pleasant position to announce that our company as official partner of the FNL Russia is co-organising the annual Football Tournament ‘FNL Cup 2017’ – Football National League, repeated for third time in the city of Larnaka during the period 11/02/2017 – 24/02/2017.

16 football teams of the 1^st division of the Russian Football National League are participating in this tournament. The total number of participants, football players, coaches, referees and high position delegates will exceed 700 persons who will be accommodated in Cyprus for over two weeks.

The organisation includes football team’s trainings in the available football fields as well as 40 matches in the stadiums of GSZ, Ammochostos and Achna. It is noted that all matches are to be broadcasted via internet and the final match will be broadcasted by life streaming throughout Russia via TV.

Related bodies (CTO, Larnaka Tourism Board, hoteliers, etc.) are already involved in this important event and it is expected that the contribution of all may ensure its success.

All matches as well as the Final Match (Tsirio Stadium 24/02/2017 at 20.45) are open to public.

For more information as well as the detailed program please contact us or visit our web page www.tecomaservices.com.cy

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Cypriot Innovation Cuisine

Crispy slices of “kolokasi” with aubergine dip

Seabass filet served with “savoro” sauce and rosemary flavoured olive oil

Creamy “louvana” soup served with olive paste

“Kataifi” with Cypriot cheeses, tomato sauce and basil flavoured oil

Lemon and mint sorbet

Pork filet “afelia” served with seasonal greens, red wine sauce and potatoes flavoured with coriander pesto

Red pumpkin mousse, served with “epsima”  syrup and garnished with caramelised walnuts

Price: € 8,00

The Higher Hotel Institute, Cyprus is proud to announce the re-opening of its Student Training Restaurant as from the 07/02/2017. The Restaurant will be open to the public for lunch from 13:30 until 15:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and charges are set at cost price.  Places are limited and you are advised to reserve a table in advance.

The Restaurant is operated by students under the supervision of their Instructors. It will continue to offer a superb variety of culinary delights for you to experience. During the Spring Semester, the restaurant will feature Cypriot Cuisine and other cuisines that have influenced it through the centuries.

For reservations TEL.: 22404847 and 22404800 FAX: 22314672

Glossary Cypriot Innovation Cuisine

This week, in our training restaurant, Cypriot gastronomic traditions are paired with futuristic plating techniques.

Our teaching objectives include:

• The stimulation of the student’s critical thinking for designing modernized presentations of yesterday’s classic dishes.
• Awaking student perception of the importance of enriching our culinary styles, which could ultimately help enhance our tourist product.
• Boosting the confidence students need to implement innovative and fresh ideas, whilst being able to communicate with their audience – clients – explaining the story behind each dish.
• To inspire them in their future creations!

Having said all the above, we would like to underline that our gastronomic wealth, is clearly recognized.

Since 2013, the Cypriot cuisine has been among the countries included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage regarding the Mediterranean Diet.

• “Kolokasi”, which is taro in English, is a root vegetable that originated in southeast Asia and Malaysia. There are different taro root varieties but the variety grown in Cyprus is known as Colocasia esculentum, which probably gave its name to the vegetable. The oldest reference regarding Cyprus kolokasi is accredited to 12^th May 1191 when kolokasi was served during dinner at the wedding celebration of Richard Lionheart with Berengaria, at Limassol castle (Jeffery, 1926).

• “Savoro”: Despite the fact that Cyprus is an Island, only a few fish and seafood recipes are famous with Savoro being one of them. Fish, usually ‘smelt’, is covered in flour and shallow fried. Then the pan is deglazed with red wine vinegar. Rosemary is added to give the characteristic flavour. Originally Savoro (flour, vinegar, garlic and rosemary) was used as a preservation marinade.

• “Louvana”: The pulse split pea, which is called louvana in Cyprus. The pea is used in Cyprus to make a hearty soup for cold winter days. It is common to include vegetables and sometimes rice.

• “Kataifi” is a popular dessert from the Middle East comprising very fine vermicelli-like pastry.

• “Afelia”: Pork Afelia is a popular recipe that includes red wine and dry coriander. It is very common to use potatoes or mushrooms instead of pork during Lent. “Afelia” is usually accompanied by bulgur pilaf and yoghurt.

• “Epsima”: Thick black coloured syrup with a bitter- sweet taste. In English it is known as grape “must” or grape molasses, and is produced by the reduction of grape “must”. It is used as a substitute of sugar in many sweets.

We would like to wish you “Καλή Όρεξη” – Bon Appetit.   

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GREEK ISLAND CUISINE

Salads Salad with Tomatoes and Bread Rusks, “Skordalia”from the Ionian Islands, Fava Dip from Sporades, Cretan Village Salad, Mixed Green Salad from Lesvos, Greek Salad with Artichokes, Peas and “Tahini”, Cucumber and Red Pepper Salad, Island“Tsatsiki”

Main Hot Dishes Chicken with Olive Oil and Oregano, “Ntomatokeftedes”from Santorini, Fish with “Kentane”Leeks, Pork “Sofrito” from Corfu, Cretan “Psarokolyva”, Roast Potatoes from Naxos, “Moussaka”, Spinach Rice Pilaf

Desserts “Ravani”, “Mastic” Cream from Chios, Fresh Fruit/ Fruit Salad

Bread Traditional Bread from Chios

Price 8 euros

The Higher Hotel Institute, Cyprus is proud to announce the re-opening of its Student Training Restaurant as from the 07/02/2017. The Restaurant will be open to the public for lunch from 13:30 until 15:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and charges are set at cost price.  Places are limited and you are advised to reserve a table in advance.

The Restaurant is operated by students under the supervision of their Instructors. It will continue to offer a superb variety of culinary delights for you to experience. During the Spring Semester, the restaurant will feature Cypriot Cuisine and other cuisines that have influenced it through the centuries.

For reservations TEL.: 22404847 and 22404800 FAX: 22314672

Introducing Greek Island Cuisine

As we have completed the cycle of Cypriot Cuisine, this week we set out to explore all the neighbouring cuisines that have influenced it. In some cases, the influence has been reciprocal as Cyprus, due to its strategic position, has historically acted as a cultural bridge between the orient and the occident.

At the Higher Hotel Institute, Cyprus, we aim to enable our students to understand the history and evolution of dishes that comprise today’s Cypriot Cuisine and develop the necessary knowledge, skills and values to stay true to our gastronomic heritage whilst at the same time contributing to its future course.

Naturally, due to the proximity of Cyprus to Greece and their common language and heritage, its cuisine was greatly influenced by that of Greece.

We begin our tribute to the Greek Gastronomy with the Greek Island Cuisine.  We have included in our menu a variety of dishes from different island groups of Greece.

Moussaka: Surely this dish originated in the Middle East and its meaning in Arabic is “something that is heated”. However, it is the Greeks that made this dish famous world-wide. There is a very interesting tale behind the Greek version. In 1920, the famous Greek chef, Nikolaos Tselementes born on the Cycladic island of Sifnos, innovated the original recipe. He thought that Greek cuisine had become too easternised under Ottoman rule, and he was determined to correct this. Having been influenced immensely by French cuisine, he decided to add a layer of Béchamel Sauce on top of the traditional dish, thus changing the dish signature for ever.

Santorini Tomato Balls: The reason we included this recipe in our menu is to highlight the special tomatoes that grow on the volcanic island of Santorini. Apparently, because the soil is volcanic there is no need to water the plants, since they water themselves with the night dew which intensifies the taste of the tomatoes. We are sorry we do not have the local tomatoes but we have tried to reproduce the dish as authentically as we can.

Pork “sofrito” from Corfu: Sofrito is one of the unique dishes from the island of Corfu. It is made with meat cooked in white wine sauce with lots of garlic and herbs. ‘Sofrito’ means slow frying (sautéing) in Italian, and this dish was introduced to the island by the Venetians that occupied the island from 1401 till 1797.

Cretan “psarokolyva”: This ancient dish comprises a mixture of pulses, seeds and cereals. Originally, it was prepared as an offering  at  the temples associated with the goddess of fertility, Ceres (Demetra). Today, this dish survives and is consumed during fasting periods, especially before Epiphany.                                                      

Kentane are leeks from Crete.

Mastic is the resin of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), and is a unique product that is produced exclusively in southern Chios. The island’s micro-climate, its topology and landscape are the secret behind its cultivation on this tiny piece of land in the Aegean Sea. It is known as the first natural chewing gum but is used extensively in pastry and baking.

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OPEN CALL FOR PARTICIPATION TO THE PROJECT “ETERNAL VOYAGES” – 1^st JULY 2017

The Organisation European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 and its partner Walk the Plank (UK outdoor arts experts) are looking for Cypriot artistic collaborators to help create “Eternal Voyages” a large-scale piece of outdoor theatre, presented on and around Pafos castle and Harbour as part of the European Capital of Culture Pafos2017 programme on 1st July 2017.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Pafos has been visited by many different travellers throughout history. Many travellers have passed through and many have fallen for the charms of Aphrodite’s home in the soft sea-foam and stayed. Like many of the Mediterranean islands it’s been a place of shelter, of stories, and a strategic location. It’s both a place of connection and of friction…from the Greek civilisation to the Ottoman Empire, between Europe and the mid- dle East, between Turkey and Greece.

The castle takes centre stage, illustrating the stories of the 3 travellers from the ancient years until the present day, through projections and high quality digital animation and mapping. This will be accompanied by heightened dramatic moments of performance including poetical text and song; both in English and Greek, dance, mass choreography, processional performance, acrobatics, a water spectacle, dynamic lighting and sound design accompanied by an original musical score and sumptuous special effects including a pyrotechnic finale.

The outline of the show is that 3 travellers, one by land, one by sea and one by air converge on the castle, where their stories unfold.

PARTICIPATING COLLABORATORS

The call is looking for below positions:

1. Composer/Musical Director

      2.Choreogrpaher

3. Writer

POSITION OUTLINE & BRIEF

1. Composer/Musical Director

The approach and arrival of each archetypical character / traveler to the castle will each be marked by an original composition.

The overall show will be around 1.5 hours in duration with the arrival of travellers and the finale of the piece itself lasting around 15 minutes each. The finale composition will gradually represent a positive outcome and will end with a celebratory feel.

Each composition will include narration and heightened dramatic moments, designed with various perfor- mance elements in mind. Dance and movement, projected film/video/animation and building mapping, spec- tacular aerial work, fire drawings and a pyrotechnic display. All this will be combined with additional elements of community celebration which will create an event that resonates with local people and touches the wider international audience.

The Composer/Musical Director will need to work across different musical genres to build a score that en- gages, delights and surprises its audience. We might want you to combine traditional instruments with con- temporary rhythms creating something both familiar and different.

The Composer/MD will have experience of writing music for theatre/opera or film; and previous experience of creating music for outdoor events, or large scale celebrations, would be desirable and you will need to enjoy a collaborative creative process where you will be required to write music to suit the needs of the storyboard, the artistic directors, the film/video maker and the choreographer.

 TIMEFRAME

Completion of first draft would need to be ready towards the end of March 2017 with the final edit completed by April 2017.

The timescale is crucial as so many different elements of the show cannot be developed until all compositions have been completed. With that in mind, availability from the beginning of March to work with the Artis- tic Director and creative team is essential.

2.Choreogrpaher

As Choreographer you will work with the Artistic Director on all performance elements and will undertake the following:

1. March 2017 – Develop choreography within the vision of the show, suitable for large scale outdoor performance by a cast of professional and non-professional dancers, performers and community participation.
2. April 2017 – Lead on several open workshops which build the confidence of non professional performers in new ways of working including new movement styles and confidence in working in a large outdoor space with costumes and props – from these Open Workshops, as choreographer you will recruit dancers and performers, then integrate them into the mix with professional performers, in order to create one ensemble.
3. June 2017 – Work in rehearsals with performers and dancers, including during production week leading up to to the show on 1st July

You will work with music created by the Composer/Musical Director who will be combining different musical genres to build a score that mixes song, traditional music, contemporary classical music and both original and found music. You will also work with an experienced stage designer who will design costume and props (not available for rehearsal until production week) and a visual/digital artist who will be creating the projection content.

Together, we want to fuse forms and mix up movement and sound and visual image to create something both familiar and different…striking, stylistically coherent and beautiful.

3. Writer

As the writer you will develop the following archetypical characters, narrative and dialogue using an existing treatment as a starting point.

1. Land traveller – A parallel story of Alexander the Great and a Cypriot One of mutual interests, with the desire to increase the capacity of his fleet with the use of the Kings own fleet for his campaign into India and the Cypriot Kings aim of achieving political independence in return.
2. Sea Traveller – A modern day pirate / trafficker seeking food and wine in exchange for ill gotten This is forbidden by order of the King. Offended, the reckless traveler, who’s characteristics are likened to that of Dionysus orders an assault on the castle.

3. Air Traveller – An acrobat is suspended arrives to pacify She is likened to The Greek Goddess Athena, Daughter of sky and thunder god Zeus. Athena relies on strategy and morality rather than bloodshed, and as a goddess of wisdom she stressed diplomacy, justice, education, arts and crafts.

TIMEFRAME

Completion of first draft would need to be ready for the end of March 2017 with the final edit completed by April 2017.

The timescale is crucial as so many different elements of the show cannot be developed until all compositions have been completed. With that in mind, availability from the end of January to work with the Artistic Directors and creative team is essential.

FEES

To be discussed

DEADLINE

17.00 GMT, Wednesday 1st March 2017

HOW TO APPLY

If you are interested in applying for this role, please send cv and letter of interest to: info@pafos2017.eu & John@walktheplank.co.uk Tel: +357 2693 2017, +44 (0)161 736 8964

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The Higher Hotel Institute, Cyprus is proud to announce the re-opening of its Student Training Restaurant as from the 07/02/2017. The Restaurant will be open to the public for lunch from 13:30 until 15:00 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and charges are set at cost price.  Places are limited and you are advised to reserve a table in advance.

The Restaurant is operated by students under the supervision of their Instructors. It will continue to offer a superb variety of culinary delights for you to experience. During the Spring Semester, the restaurant will feature Cypriot Cuisine and other cuisines that have influenced it through the centuries.

For reservations TEL.: 22404847 and 22404800 FAX: 22314672

GREEK MAINLAND CUISINE

 SALADS

“Kopanisti”- Bean Spread with Herbs and Olive Oil, “Tirokafteri”- Spicy Cheese Dip, Greek Salad, Cabbage Salad from Thrace, Rocket Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Thessalian Lettuce Salad, Peppers with Feta Cheese, Seafood Salad, Salad with Cucumbers and Carrots

MAIN DISHES

Beef “Giouvetsi”, “Gigantes Plaki”- Oven baked Giant Beans, Chicken with Peas, Lamb Stew “Fricassée”, Potatoes with Oregano, Spinach-Cheese Pie, “Kolokithokeftedes” – Zucchini Balls, “Briam” – Vegetables in Tomato Sauce

DESSERTS

“Trigona Panoramatos”, Walnut Pie with Yoghurt, Fresh Fruit / Fruit Salad

BREAD

“Thessaloniki” Bread Rings

Price €8.00

Glossary – Greek Mainland Cuisine

Because Cypriot Cuisine is so close to Greek Cuisine in many ways, it becomes especially hard to distinguish the one cuisine from the other. We, at the HHIC, believe that it is necessary to study the characteristics that constitute the authenticity of a cuisine and what characteristics render it unique. In other words, we want students to research and ‘get to the bottom’ of different cuisines.

Greek and Cypriot cuisines have much in common thanks to the gastronomic influences from Byzantine, French, Italian, Ottoman and Middle Eastern cuisines, amongst others. Yet each has its own distinctiveness that sets it apart from the others, although we often encounter the same dishes with different names.

“Kopanisti” is a Greek term used to describe something that has been beaten.

 “Giouvetsi” is a century-old dish traditionally served as a one-pot meal and baked in a wood burning oven. In days gone by, when a household did not have an oven, it was very common for a family to carry the day’s dish over to the bakery and have it cooked in the baker’s oven.

“Fricassée” refers to a dish of pieces of meat or vegetables stewed in stock and served in a white sauce. It originates from the French and it means “cut up and cook in sauce” (probably a blend of frire ‘to fry’ and casser ‘to break’).

“Briam” is the Greek equivalent to Ratatouille. Variations of this vegetable dish can be found in villages across Greece. In Cyprus, the same dish is referred to as “tourlou tourlou” (Turkish for mixed up).

“Trigona Panoramatos” are crispy, golden, buttery phyllo triangles soaked in syrup and filled with rich and creamy custard. “Trigona”, which mean triangles in Greek, are a regional speciality from the district of Thessaloniki called Panorama, where they get their name from. “Panorama Triangles” were created for the first time in 1944 by Agapitos Valogiorgis, when he opened his first pastry shop in the centre of Thessaloniki. His pastry creations became famous and his sweets were considered to be of high quality. The people consuming them were among the most distinguished and well established in the area.

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MARCH PROGRAMME OF EVENTS AT THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE PAFOS2017

March begins with a number of exhibitions dedicated to the Godess of Aphrodite, the internationally acclaimed Cypriot artist Stass Paraskos and an exhibition inspired by Christianity. Furthermore, photography exhibitions that record the everyday life in Cyprus in comparison to Malta’s, as well as images gathered through journeys along border areas. The programme of events is also composed with a music performance by children under the supervision of the musician and composer Ruben Zahra, an open conference within the frame of Akamas project and dance events and tours thorugh the community involvement programme.

Programme of Events

3 March – 20 March 2017, Medieval Manor House – Kouklia, 10:00 – 17:00

Aphrodite’s Library

Pafos, as a place of Aphrodite’s worship, attracted pilgrims from around the Mediterranean for the festivities dedicated to the goddess. Two large installations by the visual artist Mary Plant, which constitute a series in constant progress that started in 1996, are presented in the lower floor of the Palepafos Museum. The first installation is the artist’s latest work ‘Aphrodite’s Notes’ (2016) and the second installation is the work ‘The Representation of the Excavation and Discovery of Aphrodite’s Library’ which will be completed within the exhibition area. During the art exhibition, a collection of books and anthographies, based on flowers and plants with reference to the goddess, is also presented. The collection is the result of the well-known artist’s long-term engagement with the figures, the myths and the traditions related to Aphrodite. After her studies, Mary Plant, has presented her work in exhibitions in England, Cyprus, Ireland, France, Germany, Russia, Mongolia, Hong Kong, Spain and The Netherlands, while her works adorn collections in many museums and foundations around the world.

Opening and guided tour on the 3rd of March at 19:00

Free entrance

4 March – 20 March 2017, Palia Ilektriki, Pafos, 16:00 – 19:00                        

A Tale of Two Cities

A collaboration between two European Capitals of Culture, Pafos2017 and Valletta2018. Cyprus and Malta are two islands in the Mediterranean that share similar sufferings, adventures and tragedies throughout history. They both also have a brilliant culture and a common natural beauty and are connected by their two historic cities – Pafos the European Capital of Culture for 2017 and Valletta, the European Capital of Culture for 2018. In this context, the Maltese photographer, David Pisani, has travelled to Cyprus and recorded images from the life of the island in order to match them with the corresponding photographs from his country. David Pisani specialises in photography of built landscape and has exhibited his work in many countries of the world. He has also written a series of journals related to the photography of cities.

Opening and guided tour on the 4th of March, at 19:00

Free entrance

10 March – 12 May 2017*,“En Plo” Gallery, 10:00 – 13:00 / 16:00 – 19:00

Depicting the Invisible

An exhibition that includes paintings, engravings and sculptures from Europe and Latin America, selected based on the inspiration they draw from Christianity. The exhibition offers the opportunity to study the different approaches and the variety of methods used for the representation of the same themes. Along with significant works by F. Abbiati, G. Battista Tiepolo, C. Sorg, I. Tapia, J. Carlos Angles, J. Tengnangel, G. Forschondt, works by Greek and Cypriot artists such as Gyzis, Parthenis, Kontoglou, Ghikas, Manousakis, Michaelides, Kontopoulos, Golfinos and others will also be exhibited. The works belong to the collection of Charalambos and Maria Christoforou, while the curator of the exhibition is Nelli Kyriazi.

Opening and guided tour on the 15th of March, at 18:00 by Cyprus Archbishop

Free entrance

* (The exhibition will be closed on 30/4 and 1/5/2017)

17 March – 30 April 2017, Pafos Municipal Gallery, 10:00 – 15:00 (Mon – Fri)

10:00 – 13:00 (Saturday)

Celebrating Stass

An exhibition that pays tribute to Stass Paraskos, one of the most well-known and internationally acclaimed Cypriot artists who has linked his name with the establishment and operation of the School of Fine Arts in Lemba. Stass, with his exuberant personality and his international displacement, has left his own mark and a rich legacy in the artistic scene of Cyprus. The exhibition is a retrospective of his work from 1960 until his death in 2014, and will present works of the artist that are part of national and international collections, including Tate Gallery of London. The exhibition is curated by Michael and Margaret Paraskos.

Opening and guided tour on the 17th of March, at 19:00

Free entrance

18 March 2017, Apostolos Pavlos Gymnasium , 19:00                                     

Kirana

A collaboration of the European Capitals of Culture Pafos2017 and Valletta2018 in a musical programme that brings out children’s talent, under the guidance of the musician and composer Ruben Zahra from Malta. On the occasion of the establishment of the Pafos Music Gymnasium in 2017, the Pafos2017 Organisation invites four artists from Valletta, the European Capital of Culture in 2018, to work in a five-day workshop with students from the Pafos Music School. The children will have the opportunity to work with professional artists, to learn the secrets of contemporary music, and also get an inside view of cartoon animation, dance, light engineering and puppet theatre. The programme starts on the 12^th  of March and finishes on the 18^th of March with a performance of both children and artists. Also participating: Christopher Gatt, Pamela Baldacchino Kerr, Tricia Dawn Williams, Niki Mala (art), Anastasis Charalambides (music) and Stavros Tsartsalis (coordination) from the Pafos Music Gymnasium.

In collaboration with the Nikolaidion Gymnasium and the Pafos Music Gymnasium.

With the support of the European Capital of Culture Valletta2018 and the Roberto Cimetta Fund.

Είσοδος Ελεύθερη

Saturday 18 March 2017, Kathikas Community Centre, 10:00-14:00

Akamas Project – Open Conference: “Agricultural Cooperatives and Sustainable Development of Local communities. Possibilities and Prospects”

Within the frame of Akamas Project, an informative workshop will take place about the Agricultural Cooperatives and the role they can play for the sustainable development of local communities.

The event is open to the public and aims to inform local communities and especially local producers in the Akamas Peninsula area about the legal framework for the creation of Agricultural Cooperatives and Cooperation Clusters, as well as the possibilities and prospects available through European funding.

Agricultural Development and Tourism Marketing will present useful examples and good practices from other areas of Europe, for the use of local production and culinary traditions in the Akamas region.

The workshop is supported by the Department of Agriculture of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment and the Akamas Communities.

Coordination: Daniella Pistenti Mouyiannou

Language: Greek

19 March 2017, Town Hall Square, 19:30                                                               

Let’s Move!

The European Capital of Culture – Pafos2017 sends out an invitation to the first event of the programme ‘Let’s Move’, with dance performances in town squares. The participation and joint creativity are essential factors for overcoming the differences between people, and also for the harmonious combination of various elements that constitute the fluid cultural identity of Pafos. This project combines community involvement with artistic creation, while dance schools join with professionals creating, thus, a performance for the residents and visitors of our town.The performance is organised in the context of the Community Involvement Programme in collaboration with the Pafos ‘Dance Culture’ Association and is the first out of three events that will take place within the next months, with the cooperation of Pafos’ Folklore Associations, the Embassy of Austria and the Programme “Schools in Action”.

Free entrance

22 March – 29 March 2017, Ibrahim’s Khan, 16:00 – 19:00

Room in a Wall

An interactive installation which explores and activates our relationship with limits/borders. The installation as a space, as a hybrid room-archive that contains photos, videos and texts, recalls the manner in which personal experiences are carried and how public memory meets the private one. The photographic material of Aron Rossman-Kiss, who lives in Geneva, was gathered through journeys along border areas and explores the personal and complex issue of relations and presentations related to the idea of limits. The installation proposes to the visitor the experience, the comparison and the addressing of a multitude of narratives.

Aron Rossman-Kiss will have a discussion with the audience on moral issues in regards to the photographing of socially sensitive issues, such as the refugee and immigrants’ problem.

The exhibition is the result of the collaboration of the Pafos2017 Organisation and the Cyprus Photographic Society (Pafos Section).

Opening and discussion with the artist on the 22nd of March, at 19:00

Free entrance

26 March 2017, DEPARTURE POINT BY BUS: PAFOS2017 HEADQUARTERS 10:00

Tours and Traces / Amargeti

The Community Involvement Programme of the Pafos2017 Organisation visits Amargeti village, which is located about 30 minutes east of Pafos, for a different kind of tour. Until 1958, Amargeti used to be a village were Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots lived together in harmony. The route follows the traces of history and memory, choosing and highlighting hidden spaces and explores elements that cannot be seen at first glance. The Frankish and the Venetian periods have left their distinct marks on Amargeti. Starting at the main square, we will move on to the Folklore Art Museum, housed at the restored Turkish-Cypriot school, for a tour and on to the Museum of Photography with unpublished historic photographs. Members of the Amargeti Expatriates’ Association will guide us through the traces of the… Nobles and the Knights and in the Yerolakkos area, where the village’s old basins were restored, narrating unknown stories of the past. Our twenty minute walk in nature will end at the impressive Bridge of Routhouni (Nostril), in the “Zimpounieris” area, which was constructed during Frankish rule and connected the Amargeti community with the neighbouring villages.

Free Entrance / Bus Seat Reservations required: Please Call 26 955 176, or email info@pafos2017.eu

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Authentic Cyprus

Cyprus enjoys an enviable worldwide sun and sea holiday destination with year-round sunshine, blue skies and warm waters. However, this fascinating island has much more to offer. Away from the tourist areas, the Cyprus countryside has a diverse wealth of its own with traditional villages, vineyards and wineries, tiny fresco-painted churches, remote forests.

Enjoy a different kind of holiday in Cyprus off the beaten track in peace and tranquillity by staying in a restored traditional house in one of the island’s many picturesque villages. 

Awaken to the sound of a cock crowing, or a donkey braying, take your breakfast in the shade of a vine with the smell of jasmine or wild thyme in the air, go for a long walk in the pine-scented forest, watch how the local bread and ‘halloumi’ cheese are made and experience rural living at first hand. And when the sun goes down, just lie back and enjoy Cyprus’ magical evenings gazing at one of the starriest skies you will ever see, lulled by the gentle sounds of the night crickets.

Welcome to Rural Cyprus

If you are looking for an alternative accommodation in a natural environment, countryside activities, meeting the locals, tranquility, local gastronomy, wine routes, small spa centers, nature trails, cycling routes, old churches and hidden monasteries, bird watching and sports –Cyprus countryside is the perfect place to go all year round.

Cyprus Agrotourism Company

For information and reservations please visit:

www.agrotourism.com.cy Tel:  +357 22340071 Fax: +357 22334764 Email: info@agrotourism.com.cy

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Training in Sustainable practices for hospitality industry staff in a fun, engaging and hassle-free way!

Have you ever wondered how many of our daily habits are directly linked to games, with enjoyment, with what is described as “having fun”;

It is within this context that the course “Training in sustainable practices in the tourism / hotel industry” has been developed.

The Course is designed around gamification, a principle which integrates gaming techniques to drive engagement in non-game business scenarios and make learning more enjoyable and fun.

Culture change

The Course aspires to spread the culture of sustainability across the workplace addressing the three pillars of sustainable development (Economic, Environment and Social).

Benefits

• Immediately available to start training your staff and organise weekly awards and prizes.
• Fulfills Eco-certification schemes’ training requirements (e.g. Travelife and Green Key).
• Content addresses employee expectations through actual workplace scenarios.
• Combines the latest global trends and implements best practices in delivery, motivational strategy and subject matter.
• Endorsed by the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative.

About the course

Course duration totals over 35+ hours of interactive learning with over 300 quiz questions, from which participants can select to play and compete against each other in either English or Greek.

Who should participate?

• All hotel staff (Frontline, Supervisors, Top Management).
• Management trainees.
• Onboarding staff.

For more information

Official website: https://sustainablelearning.eu

E-Mail: info@sustainablelearning.eu

Hypermedia Interactive Services Ltd:  (+357) 99 686072

Contact person: Daphne Demetriades daphne@hypermedia.eu

Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative: (+357) 22 252315, E-Mail: info@csti-cyprus.org

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