The 17th Greek Film Festival kicked off in Melbourne this week with a sell-out crowd of 740 people gathering to see the hit comedy “Nisos”.
The opening night crowd filled four cinemas. This was an increase from last year’s 470 people and 390 people in 2008. State Labor MP Jenny Mikakos congratulated the Greek Orthodox Community of Melbourne and Victoria for its ongoing work with the festival.
“When it comes to art, Greeks have a strong influence,” she said. She stressed the Brumby government’s commitment to the Greek community, having pledged more than $3 million to the Greek Community on Lonsdale Street, as well as $70 000 for the Antipodes Festival.
She was joined in the cinema by her colleague in the state Labor party John Pandazopoulos and chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission George Lekakis. Lekakis this week was announced as a 2011 Australia Day Ambassador. GOCMV President Bill Papastergiadis said he was looking forward to the 17th Greek Film Festival’s diverse program.
The festival continues in Melbourne and Sydney until October 31st and in Brisbane from the 29th – 31st of October.
(source: neos kosmos)
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