The Hellenic Dancers of Hobart are preparing to return to Melbourne for the Antipodes Festival, where they will take to the stage for the second consecutive year at the end of February.
As Tasmania’s only Greek dance group, the ensemble brings together 50 performers aged between five and 25, united by a shared passion for Hellenic culture.
Dance instructor Georgia Ross says the group relies heavily on grassroots fundraising to help cover travel costs for performances interstate.
“We run barbeques and sing Kalanda at Christmas — that’s usually where most of our funding comes from,” she explains, noting that the efforts reflect the strength of community support behind the group.
According to Ross, Tasmania’s Greek Australian community may be small, but it is deeply connected.
“Everyone knows everyone. It’s small, but very tight-knit,” she says. “People are always willing to support us. I think they really appreciate the creativity.”
Support also extends well beyond the Greek community. The dancers are regularly invited to perform at local events, including at Hobart’s Greek taverna and even a Rotary Club dinner.
“I always laugh and think, none of you are even Greek — but if you ask us to dance, we will,” she says.
The group is also a popular choice for weddings and celebrations across the state.
Recently, the Hellenic Dancers received government funding to commission new traditional costumes for their young performers. The garments are being handcrafted in Greece and represent styles from various regions across the country.
Ross says teaching dance is especially meaningful to her because it allows her to share her heritage in a vibrant and engaging way.
“I want to show the kids there’s more to Greece than just the language,” she says. “Dance brings people together. It’s fun, and you gain so much from it.”
In fact, she notes that more young people are enrolled in dance classes than in Greek language school.
Beyond cultural education, Ross sees dance as a way to build confidence. She recalls students who were initially hesitant to participate.
“I tell them I just want to see them try one dance. Before long, they’re the ones most eager to get on stage,” she says.
For many of the children, attending rehearsals is a choice they make themselves.
“It’s a Friday afternoon — they don’t have to be there. But their friends are there, they’re learning something new, and they want to be part of it.”
Over the years, Ross has watched students grow from shy pre-teens into confident adults.
“We’ve had kids start with us at 12 who are now grown up. It’s incredible to see.”
At this year’s festival, the group is looking forward not only to performing, but also to reconnecting with friends from Melbourne, meeting new people and celebrating Greek culture together.
The Antipodes Festival will take place on Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne.
