NIKOS XYLOURIS-Summer Tour

Summer Tour Celebrating the 90th Anniversary of the Birth of the Great Lyra Player and Performer

"Nikos Xylouris, The Archangel of Crete"

He sang to bring people together...

Text: Zacharenia Petraki
Directed by: Nikorestis Chaniotakis

On the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the birth of the legendary lyra player and singer Nikos Xylouris, the musical-theatrical production "Nikos Xylouris, The Archangel of Crete" is touring throughout Greece. Following its great success in Athens, where it was presented during the winter season at Ivi Theatre and warmly applauded by nearly 40,000 spectators, the production is now embarking on a nationwide tour.

The script, based on years of research and archival material, was written by Zacharenia Petraki. The production is directed by Nikorestis Chaniotakis, Artistic Director of the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete, while production is undertaken by Stages Network and Athenian Theatres.

For the first time, the life and work of this great Greek artist, a true cultural icon, is being brought to the stage in a high-caliber theatrical production featuring a large cast and the participation of distinguished artists from both theatre and music. The "Archangel of Crete," as Xylouris, affectionately known as "Psaronikos," was often called, comes to life through a performance that combines live music, previously unpublished photographs, valuable audio recordings, and narration. The result is an immersive experience that unites testimony, artistry, and emotion.

The production seeks to present Xylouris not only as a symbolic voice, but also as the inner world of a man who sang with the soul of an entire people.

Audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy Xylouris's iconic songs in new orchestrations by Andreas Katsigiannis, while the Cretan musical programme featured in the production has been curated by Ross Daly.

Ourania Xylouris, Nikos's life partner and the guardian of his legacy, made a significant contribution to the final version of the script. Guided by her personal recollections and built around songs that defined an entire era, the production captures not only the greatness of his voice but, above all, reveals the moral and spiritual depth of a personality that left an indelible mark on modern Greek culture.

The performance also brings to life major figures from Greece's artistic and cultural history, including Jenny Karezi, Kostas Kazakos, and Christos Leontis, among others. Special emphasis is given to Nikos Xylouris's relationship with Stavros Xarchakos, which began with the landmark album Dionyse Kalokairi Mas and evolved into a deep and enduring friendship.

The production is presented under the auspices of the Municipal Regional Theatre of Crete.