On Sunday, September 22, 2024, St. John’s Greek Orthodox College in Preston was alive with energy as it hosted the second edition of the #folkGRooves festival. This vibrant event showcased the talents of young dancers and musicians, celebrating the rich tapestry of Greek folk traditions and community spirit.
Organized by the Cultural Centre of Florinians “O Aristotelis”, this year’s festival brought together diverse performance groups of children aged 5 to 17, including participants from various ethnic backgrounds. The festival highlighted the contributions of numerous dance groups, including the St. Johns College Band & Dance Group, Cypriot Style Entertainment, Hellenic School of Dance Culture Music & Arts, “O Periklis” Dance Group, Melbourne Gaida Ensemble, Panagia Soumela, Akrites tou Pontou, Cretan Brotherhood and “O Aristotelis” Dance Group, that performed with a live Halkina band made up of 2nd and 3rd generation Greeks. Special highlight, the very young and talented Nektarios Tsiounis on clarinet playing for the group.
The #folkGRooves festival aims to create a platform where younger performers take centre stage. Unlike many traditional festivals that prioritize senior performers, this event showcased the enthusiasm and talent of younger dancers, helping to kindle a passion for Greek folk dance among participants and encouraging greater involvement in cultural activities.
The festival provided a space for young participants to share their personal experiences and the connections they felt through Greek dance and culture. It also promoted intergroup learning and camaraderie among community associations, fostering a sense of unity within the multicultural environment.
Open to the wider community, #folkGRooves featured not only live performances but also a variety of engaging activities for families. Attendees enjoyed folk dancing, live music, and delicious food offerings, along with stalls that provided information about the different participating groups. Additional activities included face painting, arts and crafts, competitions, a games corner, and raffles designed to engage young visitors and families.
As the festival commenced at midday under sunny skies, organizers extended their gratitude to St. John’s Greek Orthodox College for its invaluable assistance in making the event possible. With free admission for all, the #folkGRooves festival promises to become a cherished annual tradition in Melbourne, celebrating the vibrant talents of the younger generation and the enduring legacy of Greek cultural heritage.
For those interested in future events, more information is available on the #folkGRooves festival social media pages. With its successful second edition, the festival is set to inspire young dancers and strengthen community ties for years to come.
Many congratulations to the organizers and to all the talented dancers and musicians!
