NEWS
LGR first joined the airwaves as a pirate in October 1983, it became licensed in November 1989 and in May 1994 LGR’s license was renewed and extended to broadcast 24 hours a day seven days a week to the greater area of the capital from its North London studios.
Akis Eracleous and Chris Harmanda launched LGR on 8th October 1983, the first Greek pirate radio station in London. The first-ever British station to target ethnic minorities with its pioneering service to the culturally diverse Greek and Cypriot communities.
Chris Harmanda entered broadcasting to give the London Cypriot community a voice, which he and Mr Eracleous indisputably achieved.
This month, LGR celebrates its 40th unofficial birthday. Now it is a legal service and the first 24-hour independent Greek radio station to hold the FM frequency license in London.
Akis, who DJ’d under the name ‘George Power’, was a co-founder of Kiss FM later. In 1983, he and Mr Harmanda decided to launch LGR broadcasting from Finsbury Park to North London with a Greek music format. Programmes initially came from the studio above the Quality Fish Bar in Finsbury Park, owned by the Harmanda family, and the offices in Akis’ house in N4 Grenville Road. Eventually the station spread its wings across the city, with help from friend and engineer Pyers Easton. They moved transmissions to above a Cypriot delicatessen in Muswell Hill, where LGR’s tall aerial mast took it’s programmes to the whole of the North London area. Even in the early days of its arrival on the airwaves, LGR gathered a dedicated following very quickly.
However, sadly in 2018 we lost both men, leaving behind their incredible legacies. The perseverance and bravery of the men who scaled rooftops of sites, ensuring the next morning we all awoke to LGR. At the Haringey office, there was an iconic image that proudly hung of its founders and DJ Kokis putting up the FM aerial for the pirate station on a rooftop. The staff and volunteers endured great adversity and went to great lengths during the 1980’s to keep London Greek Radio on the air.
Akis Eracleous hosted the very first show of the unlicensed station. He and George Gregoriou, known by his nickname Kokis and Aliki Michael, graced the airwaves. Kokis, LGR’s longest-serving DJ recounted: “I was collecting Greek records because I was learning the bouzouki. I’d go up the Greek Lanes and buy 45s.”
When the station began, LGR called rag trade factories with big Cypriot workforces. “We said: ‘Put it on you’ll hear Greek music to work by“, says Kokis. “Factory to factory, the station became known by word of mouth.”
LGR quickly soared in listening numbers and was not long after was followed by a flood of competitors i.e. GCR, Foni ton Apodimon, Foni tis Parikias, Londino ’88 and others. Despite its rivals, LGR’s reputation as the original Greek-Cypriot broadcaster garnered the kind of loyalty which out-performed its rivals. By 1987 85% of Cypriots were tuning into the unlicensed station every week.
“Growing up in North London in the 80s & 90s, the whole family was listening“. Ask a Greek or Cypriot and this is what they will tell you. LGR’s real timeless traits, which helped trigger a sense of nostalgia and a connection to their culture. This is where LGR plays to its strengths and is the reason why London-born Greeks and Cypriots come back to it. This is the modern legacy of London Greek Radio.
LGR presenter Tony Neophytou mentions that “the Greek speaking community have a penchant for radio because of the strength of their attachment to back home. Whether they come from Cyprus, Greece or the Diaspora, anything that recreates a sense of their roots stirs them emotionally. That’s partly due to the music of course, with its lyric content, but it’s also about the culturally relevant topics we talk about.”
In the mid-1980s, tens of thousands of people signed a petition demonstrating the need for LGR to have a real presence within the community. The signatures were handed to the relevant authorities which subsequently contributed to the station being licensed by the radio authorities.
The pirate LGR left the air at the end of 1988 having decided to apply for one of the new incremental radio licenses. They decided to work together with Afro-Carribean station WNK to share a frequency, winning the North London license with a 12-hour daily allowance. LGR returned to the air legally as London’s first Greek community radio station in November 1989.
The book, ‘London’s Pirate Pioneers‘ (2015) by Stephen Hebditch tells the story of the capital’s pirate radio stations and the people who helped change the British broadcasting system.
He writes about LGR’s undeniable legacy in the eighties and the intense pressures it faced to shut down. As quoted:
“The biggest action ever taken by the authorities against LGR came in 1988 when the police raided LGR’s offices, yet again, only this time they confiscated all paperwork related to the station. In a case at Highgate Magistrates Court in July, companies and staff associated with London Greek Radio were fined £13,900 plus £10,550 in costs and expenses.”
Thousands of listeners to LGR had come out in support of the beleaguered illegal pirate station, at a Camden event. “We were faced with closure, so we held a LGR night at the Electric Ballroom in Camden Town,” says George (‘Kokis’). “It sold out twice over and we did it again the following week for those who had missed out.”
LGR even stirred some Parliament airtime, responding to a question by a certain Jeremy Corbyn, Labour MP, that asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Mr Atkins how many times his Department has confiscated equipment held by LGR.
My department’s radio investigation service has seized equipment being illegally used by London Greek Radio on 151 occasions. The equipment when seized is held in a secure store and disposed of in accordance with section 83 of the Telecommunications Act 1984. (Hansard archive, 10th January 1989).
However, London Greek Radio became one of Britain’s first-ever licensed ethnic radio stations upon being awarded its license.
On November 13th, 1989, LGR opened its doors as a fully legal station, with offices and a studio located on Vale Road, Haringey. In 2003, LGR purchased a freehold in Finchley and moved to its current studios in LGR House.
One of London’s first-ever licensed ethnic radio stations began official broadcasting on 13th November 1989 upon being awarded its license, breaking ground in changing the landscape of UK radio.
John Kyriakides, Chairman of London Greek Radio, described the twists and turns in the station’s turbulent history.
“It was a difficult and protracted journey. George Eracleous and Chris Harmanda, two young men who intended to launch a Greek-language pirate radio station in the early 1980s, are credited with founding the station. Eventually, the station became a target for the authorities, who prosecuted the founders and repeatedly threatened to arrest them. Though we had to share the frequency with an Afro-Caribbean channel, Eracleous and Harmanda never gave up, and with the help of the Greek and Cypriot communities, a few directors, and myself, the radio station was given a licence at the end of the decade.
“We were only permitted to broadcast for twelve hours at first, however after five years, the Afro-Caribbean station disbanded, and London Greek Radio was then granted a 24-hour radio licence and became an independent radio station.”
LGR 103.3 FM, celebrates 34 years of broadcasting as a radio station on 13th November 1989, becoming the UK’s longest-serving ethnic station to hold an FM license.
Over the years, London Greek Radio has become steadfast to a wide range of listeners; from maturing-settlers-to-the-UK to the coming-of-age London Greek-speakers – connecting listeners to their roots through a carefully balanced programming of music, speech, entertainment and news.
It serves advertising for many Greek and Cypriot run businesses in and around North London. LGR has recently increased its English language airtime encouraging more Greek-speaking young people to listen in, particularly during the daytime, drive time and evenings as part of the schedule. LGR is also recruiting younger presenters, who combine Greek music with discussions on everything from cultural identities to chart trends.
Over the years, LGR 103.3 FM has been known for its diverse musical offerings, covering a wide range of genres, including classic and modern laika, pop-laika, entehno, elafrolaiko, and many more. It also features a mix of music news, celebrity interviews, community chest shows and cultural content designed to appeal to its demographic.
The station is an integrated part of the communities’ social lives, including the organised Greekology events. Mr Eracleous suggested launching LGR nights at a local club, which helped to boost the credibility and impact of the station. In 2012, its debut at the Marquee Club with most notably, Cypriot Eurovision star Ivi Adamou, was sold-out with over 500 people in attendance. LGR Club Nights are currently the station’s biggest event, with more than a few dates in London taking place each year.
LGR played a huge part in radio history, by giving Greek and Cypriot musicians the chance to discover a space for themselves in the music scene. Today it is the go-to station for the exploration of up-and-coming artists and homegrown talent and recently launched its own LGR Productions.
LGR has supported charities including Radiomarathon, London Autism Group Charity, UK Thalassaemia Society and Alkionides UK Charity. The Leukaemia Cancer Society even gives the credit to LGR in inspiring the creation of the cancer charity. The charity’s website acknowledges this fact.
“In 1994 London Greek Radio (LGR) put out a mother’s appeal for her son. Flushed with success the group decided to carry on recruiting new donors, raising awareness of blood cancers, and supporting patients with the disease. Within a year of hearing the appeal on London Greek Radio, the group had formed a committee and registered the charity.”
The LGR brand is still alive and well today. Today, in addition to serving communities on 103.3FM, LGR has been taken into 21st-century broadcasting by joining the Digital Radio platform.
LGR can now be heard in two major cities on DAB+ (digital radio), namely London and Birmingham.
Furthermore, listeners extend worldwide at lgr.co.uk and the station has a free app for mobile devices which listeners can download from the App or Play stores embracing the ‘on-the-move’ audience.
The audience base of LGR, which includes listeners from the Italian, Spanish, Arab, Jewish, Armenian, Bulgarian, and Turkish Cypriot communities, is well-established and diverse.
LGR’s Managing Director, Tony Jay, said, “More listeners are discovering the ever-growing London Greek Radio family every day, not only Greek-speaking listeners but English, Jewish, Albanian, Arab, Bulgarian, Turkish, Russian and many more that frequently tune in.
He added, “LGR is undergoing a revamp with fresh ideas to attract an even wider audience. Exciting times ahead ‘onwards and upwards’.”
LGR’s Chairman John Kyriakides, added, “With LGR’s edgier playlists of the biggest Greek and Cypriot tunes, Modern Laika, Greek Pop, Entehna, Golden-Oldies, Alternative, Folk and Current Chart Hits, we continue to serve the listener. It’s this enigmatic reason that the station remains the preferred choice in most Greek and Cypriot homes, offices, shops, factories, workplaces, vehicles and venues.
In conclusion, he states that “our multilingual programmes–English and Greek–reach a large and diverse audience on a global scale. It broadcasts music, interviews, announcements, community events, local news, Greek and Cypriot news in addition to church services. While catering to the lively lifestyle of one of London’s prosperous communities, the wide range of programmes are made to appeal to all age groups.”
October 2023
Article written by London Greek Radio
The third film of the Big Fat Greek Wedding franchise is to hit cinemas worldwide on 8th September.
As the release date draws nearer, the excitement among fans has become palpable, reverberating through social media platforms with LGR playing ‘Opa’ of course, to mark the film event.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 official trailer released earlier in the year, teased a former Greek Eurovision entry.
The timeless Eurovision tune was a 2010 Eurovision Song Contest hit with Giorgos Alkaios and Friends, ‘Opa’, and ranked 8th in the music event. The tune could be described as a Greek-language up-tempo with the iconic, Pontiac Lyra instrument.
The catchy Greek number is a popular song with Eurovision fans, and 12 years later, is featured in trailer in the beloved franchise. The official club remix to this song, could be heard on London Greek Radio in recent weeks.
The architype Greek Eurovision song with its ethnic elements, is regarded as Greece’s strength and its super-asset, in Eurovision terms, particularly in the noughties and early 2010’s.
It is a fun song which in 2023 still sounds exciting. It is the ethnic banger, which stands the test of time.
The official trailer released earlier in the year, teased the fun-filled family reunion.
‘A lot has happened since my big fat Greek wedding…,’ Toula says in a voiceover. ‘My father passed away and his last wish was for us to visit his childhood village and reconnect with our roots, so we’re having a reunion.
‘And by we, I mean the whole family.’
As she greets several of her family members, she continues: ‘My father passed away and his last wish was for us to visit his childhood village and reconnect with our roots.’
After the family boards a plane to Greece, Thiea Voula, played by Andrea Martin, offers the group souvlaki, after which Nick Portakalos, portrayed by Louis Mandylor, asks: ‘Anybody by the name of Sue Vlaki on this flight?’
Toula’s daughter Paris, played by Elena Kampouris, then awkwardly encounters her prospective romantic partner Aristotle, portrayed by Elias Kacavas, and Thiea comments: ‘They had an amazing date. She ghosted him.’
Once the family lands in Greece, they are greeted by an eccentric cousin, who describes herself as ‘related through your pappou’s pappou, who was married to your great-yiayia’s sister’s sister-in-law.’
The family’s long-lost cousin then tells Toula that her deceased father’s friends will return to their hometown to participate in the family reunion, although when she is asked if she knows the group specifically, she dejectedly answers: ‘No.’
After the Portakalos family spends the night in the same room and are rudely woken up by a stray goat, Vardalos’ character remarks: ‘This is one reunion we’ll never forget.’
Thiea later goes out on a fishing trip and comments that ‘I am surprised, but I am not surprised, because I’m never surprised.’
Martin’s character later tells Paris that she ‘dreamt about Aristotle last night’ during a group dance, and after she is asked about how she found that out, Thiea quips: ‘Greek voodoo! Bam!’
When Toula tells her husband Ian, played by John Corbett, that she really wants to reconnect with her father’s friends, her sister Nikki and their Cousin Angelo, played by Gia Carides and Joey Fatone, rush off to complete the task.
After the Portakalosn family runs into the Mediterranean Sea, Nick, recognising Toula’s role in bringing the family back to their homeland, proclaims her to be the new ‘head of the family.’
Vardalos’ character then starts day-drinking with Thiea, and her husband becomes amused after she drunkenly struggles to hop on the back of a donkey.
The trailer ends after Ian encounters an old farmer who encourages him to pick one of her chickens to be slaughtered for dinner, and after he describes himself as a vegetarian, she flatly replies: ‘No.’
My Big Fat Greek Wedding became one of the most successful indie films of all time after its release, raking in $368.7 million (£302.2 million) worldwide, from just a $5 million budget (£4.1 million).
September 2023
Article written by London Greek Radio
The third film of the Big Fat Greek Wedding franchise is to hit cinemas worldwide on 8th September. The excitement surrounding the film is palpable, and fans are eagerly looking forward to its release.
The official synopsis reads: “From writer and director Nia Vardalos, the worldwide phenomenon My Big Fat Greek Wedding is coming back to cinemas with a brand-new adventure. Join the Portokalos family as they travel to a family reunion in Greece for a heartwarming and hilarious trip full of love, twists and turns. Opa!”
The official trailer released earlier in the year, teased the fun-filled family reunion.
‘A lot has happened since my big fat Greek wedding…,’ Toula says in a voiceover. ‘My father passed away and his last wish was for us to visit his childhood village and reconnect with our roots, so we’re having a reunion.
‘And by we, I mean the whole family.’
Γάμος αλά Ελληνικά 3, in Greek.
The new single “Oli Mazi” (We Are All Together)” from the film threequel is performed by Rita Wilson and Christos Mastoras (Melisses, lead-vocalist), co-written by Rita Wilson and Diane Warren.
All of the cast are reprising their roles, including Nia Vardalos, John Corbett, Elena Kampouris, Lainie Kazan, Andrea Martin, Louis Mandylor, Gia Carides, Gerry Mendicino, Joey Fatone, Stavroula Logothettis, and Elias Kacavas as Aristotle.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding is one of the most successful indie films of all time and star-of-the-film Nia Vardalos is the scriptwriter and director, who will reprise her “Tula” character.
Fans of the noughties film will be delighted to learn that Nia, 60, has reunited with on-screen husband John Corbett in scenes shot in Rafina.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 has been confirmed since April 2021, although production had been slowed down due to the pandemic.
The film will be dedicated to Michael Constantine, who played Toula’s father Kostas “Gus” Portokalos and who passed away in August 2021 at age of 94.
According to a post Vardalos wrote on her Instagram, Constantine knew he wouldn’t be part of the third film. “He had told me he wouldn’t be able to join us for the third film and his wish was that we go on. I wrote the screenplay to reflect Michael’s decision and will always treasure his last messages to me, hoping we were filming soon,” she explained. “We miss you Michael, thank you for bringing my words to life with such passion and accuracy, you will always be with us.”
“He was a beloved friend and a brilliant actor/writer who taught me so much about my craft and LIFE,” Lainie Kazan, who portrayed Gus’s wife Maria Portokalos, wrote on Facebook after his death.
“We shared a make-believe marriage for over 20 years in the movies My Big Fat Greek Wedding 1 and 2 and soon-to-be 3. What a beautiful relationship. Michael you will be missed. Heaven has gained another angel.”
In addition to her social media video, Vardalos used her caption to thank production companies Playtone, Gold Circle, HBO and Focus, as well as devoted fans for “much love and gratitude” as the team waited to film in Greece.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding became one of the most successful indie films of all time after its release, raking in $368.7 million (£302.2 million) worldwide, from just a $5 million budget (£4.1 million).
Article written by London Greek Radio
Greek Cypriot artist Georgia George is set to release some irresistible summer vibes with her new single ‘Tsifteteli Zeimbekika‘ on July 28th.
This infectious anthem transports listeners to vibrant bouzoukia nights. Georgia’s exceptional vocals and dynamic songwriting skills bring life and love to the forefront, captivating audiences across Greece, Cyprus, England, and beyond. Inspired by the bustling London bouzoukia nightclub scene and fuelled by her passion for Greek music, Georgia collaborates with her brother Vasilis, a talented lyricist, to create catchy lyrics. Having been immersed in Greek melodies from a young age, Georgia is thrilled to ignite the UK Greek community with her irresistible summer dance anthem.
“I’m excited to bring some Greek summer vibes to audiences across the UK Greek community with my new song ‘Tsifteteli Zeimbekika.’ It’s a catchy, upbeat summer dance anthem that will get everyone on their feet!”
Georgia, a singer-songwriter and producer from Devon told London Greek Radio: “As a fan of LGR, I believe that my song would be a great fit for your listeners. ‘Tsifteteli Zeimbekika’ is an upbeat and catchy tune that combines elements of traditional Greek music with modern pop, showcasing my unique sound.”
You can follow Georgia George on all social media platforms @georgiageorgemusic
Growing up with London Greek Radio, since 1989
Published: July 2023
Article written by London Greek Radio
The Cyprus Week free event at Theatro Technis at 26 Crowndale, starts today. The 6-day event which runs until 22nd July, celebrates the talent and creativity of Cypriot and Greek artists.
The arts venue is founded by George Eugeniou in 1957, he is the Artistic Director, with the help of Kerry Kyriacos Michael MBE as its new Creative Director.
Cyprus Week has taken place at Theatro Technis for over 55 years, created originally as a cultural response by Cypriots in London to events in the 50’s, and renewed again with greater intensity after the Greek Junta Coup and Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974.
Monday 17th July at 7pm (Raising the flag of the Republic of Cyprus at 6pm approx.)
Cypria written by Elena Pavli and performed by Lucy Christofi Christy. A satirical play about the unrealised dreams and the historical erasure of Stasinus, known as the ‘lost poet of Cyprus’.
Cypria – [A minor retelling of the epic life of the semi-legendary Stasinus, lost poet of Cyprus], is a satirical play about the unrealised dreams and the historical erasure of Stasinus, known as the ‘lost poet of Cyprus’. Written and directed by Elena Pavli and performed by Lucy Christofi Christy, this segment is an excerpt of a longer play.
Elena Pavli is a playwright, TV writer and actor. Her nomadic childhood included moving between England, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus and Australia. Her first full-length play, THE BAD, THE SAD & THE BROKEN-HEARTED, was performed at Soho Theatre and the Steve Allen Theater in Los Angeles. She has also written on several television series, including SNATCH for Sony/Crackle TV.
Elena is a graduate of The Central School Of Speech and Drama and has performed in theatres as geographically distant as The Globe and The Sydney Opera House. She is currently working as a staff writer as well as writing her own television series.
Lucy Christy is a character actress that enjoys the more challenging roles. UK born of Greek and Cypriot origin, London educated and trained in theatre and screen. She has spent my time working between the UK and Cyprus. Lucy has a long history working with Theatro Technis.
Tuesday 18th July at 7pm
OUR JOURNEY My Dog Azur. The Actors Touring Theatre presents in collaboration with EKA.
A story about a dog called Azur and the village Sichari on the Pentadactylos mountain. A one-act short play by Vasilis Panayis.
With Panos Savvides, Georgia Georgiou, Markos Xenophontos, Avgi Fasoull, Perristera Toumazi, Chriso and Peter Panayi.
Assistant Director Menios Grammenos. Directed & Produced by Vasilis Panayis. Music by Stalo Georgiou. Featuring live traditional music by Eleftheria Georgiou.
Wednesday 19th July at 7pm
A Lobby for Cyprus and Famagusta Association of Great Britain debate and seminar. Famagusta: Shattered lives seminar.
49 years since they were forcibly uprooted from their homes and other properties in the Turkish-occupied northern area of the Republic of Cyprus, lawful residents of Famagusta will share their agonising experiences, their shattered lives and their longstanding desire to return to where they belong.
Speakers and presentations by Philip Christopher, President of PSEKA (by videolink), Presidential Commissioner for Humanitarian Issues and Overseas Cypriots (by videolink), Andreas S Kakouris, High Commissioner of Republic of Cyprus to UK, Dr Vassilis Mavrou, President of Famagusta Association of GB, Dr Theodora Christou, Lobby for Cyprus executive, The refugee perspective, and a musical performance by Nikos Savvides.
Thursday 20th July at 7pm
The Suitcase by Lorna Eleonora Vassiliades. Directed by Pedro Perez Rothstein. What do you take with you when suddenly you have to leave your home?
On the anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus, performance Artist Lorna Eleonora Vassiliades creates a ritual of grief and mnemonic resistance through the suitcase and items her family grabbed when they were forced to flee from their home in Famagusta.
Everyone with experience and/or a heritage of forced displacement is invited to bring an item with them.
We will end dancing a Greek circle dance together as a symbol of unity.
Estimated running time: 60 minutes.
Lorna Eleonora Vassiliades is a journalist-author turned performer and PhD researcher investigating solo performance and the heritage of displacement at Queen Mary University of London.
Friday 21st July at 7pm & Saturday 22nd July at 7pm
Pan Metron Ariston, a play reading by George Eugeniou. A Theatro Technis production.
A new political satire written by the founder of Theatro Technis, George Eugeniou.
Come and listen to this new play in development, by multi award winning published playwright and director Geroge Eugeniou.
Friday 21st July Act One & Saturday 22nd July Act Two.
Estimated running time 1 hour 20 mins.
A free event as part of Cyprus Week.
For more information visit: Theatro Technis.
Article written by London Greek Radio
The first-ever Greek Arts Festival takes place, this week at Millfield Theatre. The 3-day event, set to run from 28th to 30th June, promises to be “an amazing mini-week of Greek and Cypriot culture and entertainment!”
Talent contest, children’s play, paintings, books and other exhibitions. Also Byzantine, Greek and Cypriot traditional and folk music by professionals and participation of students from Greek Community schools.
Wednesday 28th June at 7pm
Dances from Walker Greek School. Traditional music & songs.
Byzantine Music brought to you by the School of Byzantine Music of our Holy Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, under the direction of Father Iosif Paliouras.
A children’s play coming from Athens by Evaggelia Gkioni “Mia grammi ke mia telia” (“Μια γραμμή και μια τελεία”).
A children’s theatrical play by Omilos Eksipiretiton (The Servers’ Society), Athens, Greece. If you search the Fairytale Map, two ice creams up and one somersault to the right, somewhere near Wonderland, you will discover a Land truly worthy of wonder. It is the Great Land of WoWs! It is there that our hero, the Little Miracle, lives. One morning, the Little Miracle wakes up from a really strange dream… what dream did it have? And what has our hero been seeking to find since then? Does anyone know the answer?
The Little Miracle’s adventure will lead it to the House of the Wise Man. Will our hero go in? And anyway, what role does the Fairy Godmother play in all this, and what about that stumbling, blundering Exclamation Mark? It is all this and much more that you will discover in our play.
Thursday 29th June at 7pm
Talent Contest “Show Me Your Talent” (singing, dancing, comedy, acting, magic, or any other talent you have). We will find talent through local newspapers and social media such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. The Lewis Sisters and Elizabeth Chapman have been confirmed as the judges, on the night.
PRIZES ON THE NIGHT
1ST PRIZE
1 WEEK HOLIDAY FOR 2 IN CYPRUS
FIGHTS AND ACCOMMODATION INCLUDED
SONG PRODUCTION BY LGR TEAM
TV AND RADIO EXPOSURE
2ND PRIZE
2X FIGHTS TO CYPRUS FOR 1 WEEK
SONG PRODUCED BY CYPRUS COMPOSER – PRODUCER
TV AND RADIO EXPOSURE
3RD PRIZE
A MEAL FOR 4 AT A TOP LOCAL GREEK RESTAURANT
TV AND RADIO EXPOSURE
All Contestants will perform on the evening and judges will give professional industry feedback then it’s your chance to vote.
Winners will be selected by judges and Audience votes.
Friday 30th June at 7pm
Dinner & Dance. Live orchestra music with Mixalis Theodosiou, Giorgos Yerasimos, Sophia Pechlivani, Mihalis Minas (Bouzouki), & Spyros Paisios (keyboard).
Tickets £50 including a 4-course meal.
MENU
STARTERS:
mezze
A selection of traditional Greek dips, bread and olives.
MAIN COURSE:
Lamb kleftiko
Traditional Slow roasted lamb shank scented with cinnamon and herbs served with delicious Cyprus potatoes
Horiatiki salad
The classic Greek salad – served with feta
VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN OPTION
Moussaka
A popular Greek dish with layered roasted vegetables topped with a flavoursome sauce and oven baked for Perfection.
Horiatiki salad
The classic Greek salad
DESSERT:
Loukoumades
Freshly made crispy dough balls
Served with Tea or coffee
FRESH FRUIT PLATTER
If you are vegetarian or vegan please let us know by emailing nina@platinumperformingarts.co.uk
The producers have the right to make changes to the programme & cast if needed.
There will be paintings, books & photographic exhibitions during the festival.
Head on over to the Millfield Theatre website and secure your tickets now before they sell out! Whether you’re a die-hard Greek and Cypriot culture enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night out, the Greek Arts Festival 2023 has something for everyone. Don’t wait, book your tickets today and join us for a cultural extravaganza that you’ll never forget!
Media sponsors: LGR & Eleftheria Newspaper
Gold sponsors: Built it Builders Merchants and A&P Skips
Supporters: Autumn Gardens and Anastasia Lodge
Article written by London Greek Radio
It is with a heavy heart that LGR announces the tremendous loss and passing of our long-time friend and colleague, Vassoula Vronti Orchard.
She passed away peacefully on Sunday 7th May 2023 after a courageous battle with Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer. She was 68.
Vassoula was a long-serving LGR employee, since it was first founded over thirty-five years ago. She has been serving the Greek Cypriot community, through her dedication to her work at LGR ever since.
Vassoula was born in Trikomo in 1954, and attended the American Academy after moving to Larnaca before arriving in the West end of London and embracing the bright lights of City Life, whilst always honouring her heritage and traditional values.
Vassoula was one in a million. A vibrant, warm, kind and thoughtful soul who was always on hand to help her colleagues, friends and loved ones, to the best of her ability. She was a consummate professional, an asset to the community and was simply irreplaceable.
Her generosity knew no bounds and there will be a huge void in the hearts and lives of everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her, working with her and loving her.
Vassoula is survived by her husband Clive, her two daughters Maria and Alexia, grandsons Tate and Miles who she absolutely adored and doted on, and son-in-law Chris, sister Demetra and brother-in-law Costakis, brother Panicos and sister-in-law Yioulla, her nieces and nephews and their families, her grandchildren, extended family and friends.
The funeral will take place on Wednesday 24th May at 11.00am at St. Panteleimon Church, 660 Kenton Road, Harrow, HA3 9QN, followed by a burial at Pinner New Cemetary, 660 Pinner Road, Pinner, HA5 5RH at 1pm.
The wake will be held at St. Panteleimon Church Hall after the funeral.
Flowers are welcome and can be sent to Demetriou & English, 131-133 Myddleton Road, London N22 8NG. There will also be an option for those wishing to donate to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in Vassoula’s memory via a Web link / Charity box on the day.
There will also be a memorial book at the hall for people to share their thoughts and memories, if they wish to, in remembrance of a beautiful woman whose light will shine on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.
Everyone at LGR extend their condolences to the family, and we thank her for her services to our community and to London Greek Radio.
Memory eternal, Vassoula. You will be missed.
Article written by London Greek Radio
Well done Andrew Lambrou came a highly respectable 12th out of 26 countries at the Eurovision Song Conest final at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, on Saturday night, the 13th of May 2023.
The Cypriot artist has written himself into Eurovision immortality, with one of the best Cypriot results in the event.
Cyprus broadcaster CyBC confirmed that up-and-coming Cypriot Australian star Andrew Lambrou would fly the flag at the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool last year.
After weeks of teasing the world with only the singer and a snippet, “Break a Broken Heart”, the Cyprus Eurovision entry by Mr Lambrou was finally released.
We were promised a strong mid-tempo song and Andrew has certainly lived up to that script, releasing his Eurovision music video for “Break a Broken Heart” in March.
The Cypriot song is certainly catchy and a radio friendly number, which has already entered London Greek Radio playlists.
Born in Sydney to Greek Cypriot parents, Andrew learnt piano, and at 5-years-of age he won 1st place in a school competition. He originally sung his way to relative stardom, covering the likes of Evanescence, Harry Styles, Camilla Cabello and Sam Smith.
In 2015, when Andrew was just 17 years old, he finished in the top 20 in The X Factor Australia. This included a stopover in London at the five-seat challenge with his mentor, singing legend, Chris Isaak where he performed in front of music mogul Simon Cowell and pop star Rita Ora.
That same year, he was noticed by Sony ATV and was signed by Maree Hamblion. Since then, he has released a string of singles, “Throne”, “Lemonade”, “Confidence” and “Electrify”.
Next stop, Liverpool. Tony Neophytou caught up with Andrew Lambrou while in between soundchecks and tours of the press circuit at the arena.
Q. You’ve finally made it to Liverpool, and you’ve been rehearsing on the stage, it must be a special feeling, right?
A. Yeah, it really is. It’s so special, to be finally on the stage and to see what it all looks like has been mind-blowing for me. And there is so much anticipation when it comes to Eurovision. Such a build-up and so to finally get up on stage… I could picture it; I could picture all the people in the crowd. And I could picture what I will all feel like special and mind-blowing.
Cyprus will be staged with the help of Austrian artistic director Marvin Dietmann and Ross Nicholson from London’s world-renowned directors Black Skull. The involvement of the Austrian and British creatives highlights the Cypriot ambition to impress at this competition.
A. Yeah, sure did, Marvin and Russ are absolutely amazing at what they do, and I really feel like I’m working with the best in the world and that’s something really encouraging for me for an artist to feel that support, to feel that level of expertise on the team. I can’t fault a single thing that Marvin and Russ they know what they’re doing and for me that’s extremely special because I know I am in great hands.
Q. The Cypriot entry ebbs and flows constantly with a built-up, excitement throughout the song. The visuals are matching the growth and dynamics and elevates the song’s strengths and it culminates with fire-lit stage!…
A. Yeah for sure, I really wanted to build when it comes to the song, I want the end to have built up to a point where it is just the big explosion at the end you know, and I’m really proud of the song and I’m excited to get on stage and deliver that for everybody. The most important things for me are the ability to connect to the song. I want people to feel what I am singing. I want people to feel the lyrics, the passion coming out of my body through the tv screens, to the people in the arena. And if I can execute that plan than I’m over the moon.
Q. “Break a Broken Heart”, why was this the song which spoke to you?
A. It is a big decision when it comes to a Eurovision song, I wanted it to be something authentic. I wanted it to be something I could relate to personally. Because I feel that really shines through on stage and I want people to connect to it. And the song has such a great impact for me it did anyway. When I first heard it and I heard that big Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh… note at the start, it just captivated me. And I said ok, what is this song, and then I just wanted to listen to it more and more after that. So when it comes to Eurovision there are so many fans who keep up to date with what’s happening in the Eurovision world, but there are many people who tune in and don’t actually listen to the songs beforehand. They are just ready to watch the show. So, for me I wanted it to grab you quickly and I feel that this song did that for me, so the goal was to do that for the people at home.
The song was written to suit Andrew’s vocal and is a rather vocally demanding song, requiring his full skills as a singer to be on-point.
Q. Impressive vocals Andrew, did you want a song that would actually stretch you vocally?
A. Yes, I did. I wanted a song’s that gonna be impactful and to show what I am capable of on the biggest stage on the world. Although it might be a bit daunting with such a big vocal. I have really worked as hard as I can to make this song really comfortable myself and I feel comfortable at this point, which is great.
Andrew Lambrou delivers an impassioned vocal performance that gives voice to anyone who has felt like at the lowest point. Because of a break-up and lyrics speak of perseverance and strength developed through strength.
The vocals are on-point and sung with emotional intensity and sincerity.
A. Yeah, thank you so much that’s probably one of the greatest compliments I have gotten so far, and people are really loving my vocals, and that all comes down to how hard I’ve been working and practicing this song and feeling as comfortable as I possibly can. It’s just trying to compliment the visuals with the audio.
Q. What is the ambition, Andrew? It’s your 25th birthday in May, what would be a lovely birthday gift, qualification, I am guessing reaching the final? I am sure you will do just fine; you won’t be breaking Cyprus hearts (to coin a phrase).
A. (Laughs) 100% correct that would be the ultimate birthday gifts for me, I don’t think anyone has to get me birthday gifts for the rest of my life after that (laughs).
Q. I’ve been following your Eurovision journey for quite some time, with Australia Decides 2022, looking back on it, do you think that gives you much needed Eurovision experience?
A. Yeah, I believe everything happens for a reason and to introduce me to the Eurovision world and going on to the stage it gave me some experience and it also taught me a few lessons too and now that I am fortunate enough to be in this position now, I am using all the knowledge I’ve got from the past into play now.
Q. There is a minor tradition with diaspora artists in Eurovision, such as Lisa Andreas and Andy Paul, former UK Cypriot acts of past Eurovision editions. What was the reaction from fellow Australians and Aussie Cypriot diaspora to your act?
A. It’s been fantastic, I can’t really complain at all. The love and support I’ve been getting over in Australia from the Greek Cypriot community has been something giving me so much motivation, so I am a very happy man with a big smile on my face. I can’t wait to make as many people as proud as I can.
Q. Was time taken aside for Greek Easter, amidst the rehearsals…
A. I had a typical Greek Orthodox Easter making flaounes and pafkia which is a version of flaouna with meat inside it that only comes from Paphos where my grandparents come from in Cyprus. So, we kept with the traditions, and we went and saw some family and it was really great just to unwind and to forget about things for a minute, and just to spend time with loved ones.
I can see from Instagram you were ‘baking’ flaounas, in terms of keeping up with tradition and culture I heard you love modern Greek music, Laika and zeimbekika…?
A. That’s for sure, at any event you can see me dancing the kalamatiano to all the classics and I’m not as good as my dad at doing the zeimbekiko that’s for sure. My dad is the professional but I’m trying to follow in his footsteps.
Q. What do you think about before a performance?
A. For me it’s about staying calm. To stay calm I think about what is important to me. I think about things outside the Eurovision world, I think about my family, my loved ones, my passion for music, and grateful I am to be here right now. I’d like to take a deep breath and understand I’m here to do what I like to do. So that’s my goal, my little ritual beforehand. It’s all about staying calm for me.
Q. Post-Eurovision, any thoughts…
A. I want to travel, and I want to release more music…
Thank you, Andrew Lambrou and the best of luck, to you and the Cypriot delegation.
The Cypriot star absolutely smashed that performance, absolutely fair play to him!
You can follow Andrew on Instagram @andrew_lambrou, where he already boasts almost 500k followers. Andrew was doing impressive TikTok numbers before announcing Eurovision, now at 700k followers and climbing.
May 2023
Article written by Tony Neophytou
Greece has selected Victor Vernicos Jorgensen as the act to represent the nation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 at the Liverpool arena.
16-year-old singer-songwriter who is of Greek-Danish descend, born in Athens, is the youngest Greek act ever to compete.
Victor with a deep, unique vocal-timbre is performing his introspective song about stress and anxiety.
“What They Say“, a song that oozes a mid-tempo ballad flair, also delivers an optimistic message to encourage those struggling mentally to overcome stress. Victor wrote it as a 14-year-old boy.
He released a song “Hope It’s In Heaven” at the age of just 14. Victor was then signed to Royal Music and 25/7 Management. Last year, Victor released his official debut song as a professional artist “Fake Club”.
Victor was taught piano at the age of 4-years-old, with vocal and guitar lessons which followed. Victor then went into music production and has been writing his own songs since he was 11. He has been editing the production of his own music and in attendance of Music Technology classes.
With his rehearsals under way for Liverpool at the M&S Bank Arena, Tony Neophytou caught up with Victor to learn a little more…
You’ve stepped onto the Liverpool Arena. What’s it like performing on stage?
I love the Liverpool Arena. It is amazing, the M&S Bank Arena!…
You’re of mixed heritage, half-Danish, half-Greek, born and bred in Marousi, Athens and you speak quite good English, at home which language prevails?
We speak both English and Greek, not much Danish. I speak more Greek with my mum; my dad has been living in Greece for 25 years. when we’re all together we speak English. In Liverpool we speak English… (Tony: are you learning Liverpudlian?) I am trying too (laughs).
You have a unique vocal fibre and it’s a mature voice. After playing your song to fellow colleagues without revealing your age, they were completely astounded to know you are just 16…
It’s a huge compliment. I am working on the voice, I’ve always thought my strength was song-writing, and it’s come to the stage (voice) its likeable at least, and people like the fact its deep and I’m young, that’s cool.
“What They Say” is a self-penned song. You’ve stamped your personality and authenticity and honesty on the song.
I write and produce my own songs. I wrote this song when I was 14 years old. it is truly one of the most open and honest songs I have ever written. I try to write my songs with honesty and that’s the most important part for me, and that’s why I think it has a stamp on it and my personality comes because of the honesty. I mean we are all unique, and when you’re honest that uniqueness comes out because you allow it too.
(Tony) The lyrics have a great depth about anxieties, and stress you felt once. The introspective song is fusing intense feelings, melancholy, frustration, angst and finishes with optimistic undertone…
It was about my first ever experience with anxiety when I was 13 years old and that was my understanding reality. I got overwhelmed by the feeling of anxiety hit me, the fear of responsibility of fear in my heart. Because managers from the US and UK started to get involved. It was a lot of responsibility to take on at such an age, and in that moment, I picked reality, it was a defining moment where I understood it was reality, you get what you give out. In that moment, I picked is it going to be reality or stay anxious or stay at home, no it’s not going to happen, and two and years later I’m at Eurovision.
It is a liberation of the end of it. The song is a monologue, and I can feel it in the second verse. It’s like ranting to your best friend and I when I get on that stage, I’ll be ranting to let go of my fears and getting on the biggest stage in the world and actually becoming an artist. My goals are huge. It’s going to be a defining moment and with all my strength finally let go of everything, I think. I hope. Honestly, it’s going to be the best experience.
I just put it all together in my head right now, as we’re speaking. I really feel it honestly. Now you’ve really helped me to clear my head… (Tony Neo: that’s what I am good at conversation), you’re good, I am not surprised. I understood that from the first moment we spoke… you’re amazing man!
(Tony) I instantly liked it from the first verse, “Late August” it’s because 26th August, it’s my birthday. August, it’s the eight-month, too, lucky number eight.
Late August… that’s really cool I’ll send you a happy birthday on the 26th of August. Ooh that was smart… yes, we are coming up in the second semi-final, we are performing eight place and yes “late August”, so I hope we’re not going to be late. I guess that’s the lucky number…
Konstantinos Rigos is responsible for the stage concept, and it’s quite creative. There’s youthful exuberance with bits of choreo, digital selfies and Greek alphabet letters, on the graphics. Victor, you move quite a bit on stage...
The staging is to show my athleticism because I do sports (not to show I am sporty), but to express the song to bring that energy forward, because I have a lot of that energy. I mean it’s the release we talked about before when it comes to balancing the vocal and the movement. We have 100% sat that down. It is all about technique and the voice. It is counting your breath.
With Eurovision I am learning to be a better performer every day. Eurovision is honestly turning me into the best version of myself when it comes to an artist. No matter what, Eurovision is a really great experience and it’s given me a lot to think about and practice on.
You are studying online from a London school, is that right?
Minerva’s Virtual Academy I love that school it has honestly given me a lot of flexibility and freedom to do what I need to do Eurovision and music in general. I stopped going to physical school and started going to this school in September (last year). I have gained 20 to 25 hours per week on music. and I wouldn’t have made that change to (online schooling) to do Eurovision.
LGR wishes you and Greece, the best of luck, in the competition.
You can follow Victor on instagram @victorvernicos.
Greece competes in Semi-Final 2 on Thursday, May 11th. Victor is #8 in the running order of 16 countries.
May 2023
Article written by Tony Neophytou
London Cypriot Cancer Campaigner Dies Aged 32
Jo Georgiou, a young London Cypriot has died at the age of 32.
Jo passed away on 12th February after launching a public campaign against cancer and devoted her energy to raising awareness of her rare cancer diagnosis, fighting for changes to how patients are helped in terms of receiving the appropriate treatment.
Jo was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer in August 2021. After a year and a half of chemotherapy, surgery and other treatments, she sadly succumbed to the disease.
Synovial Sarcoma is a cancer that can come from different types of soft tissue such as muscle or ligaments. It is often found in the arm, leg or foot, and near joints such as the wrist or ankle. Only about 1 to 3 individuals in a million people are diagnosed with this disease each year. It can occur at any age, but it is more common among teenagers and young adults. The exact cause isn’t clear.
Speaking to London Greek Radio in 2021, Jo underlined the ethos of her campaigning work as absolutely vital in raising public awareness, because it was sometimes perceived as taboo, especially for young people.
Jo said that her aims were: “For synovial sarcoma to be spoken about and made aware of especially as so many people go undetected for years – and it’s very common in young people. For cancer to not be taboo… And for people knowing that nothing will prepare you for chemotherapy and I wish there was a help or guide, where people sit 1 to 1, relaying what is going to happen. What to be prepared for. And what benefits they’re entitled to. There are benefits cancer patients are entitled to that aren’t offered unless requested.”
Jo Georgiou shared her story with LGR about how her Instagram account would be helping people in similar circumstances, and to offer some reassurance.
She said, “I started an Instagram journey of my life since my diagnosis, and it is amazing that people contact me to inform me I’m helping them. It means so much to me. I’m helping people who have loved ones going through it, people just starting chemo, and people in remission. People who’ve got other health issues to , even mental health. It’s incredible what sort of platform it’s become. My Instagram following isn’t big by all means, but it feels like a community is forming on there. In my time, if I do anything, id love to form a handbook. A real handbook for patients about to start chemo who’ve just been diagnosed. From one real person who’s been through it, hand over everything to a newbie… the challenges they’ll face could be helped if I can just make them aware and prepare them for what’s going to happen.”
Jo grew up in Larnaca, Cyprus and moved to London in 2004. She attended East Barnet School where she achieved her GCSEs and A-levels. After leaving school, Jo worked her way up from a Retail Sales Assistant to an Area Manager.
She passed away at the North London Hospice surrounded by her loved ones. She leaves behind her mother, sister, extended family and friends. Her funeral service was held at Green Acres in Epping Forest on 27th February.
LGR extend their condolences to her family and friends and thank Jo for being a passionate, tireless campaigner and inspiration to others with her bravery and spirit.
Article written by London Greek Radio
