Greek Singer Dimitris Basis to Perform in Melbourne and Sydney

Acclaimed Greek singer and performer Dimitris Basis headlines this year’s programs at the largest celebration of Greek culture outside of Greece; the Lonsdale Street Festival in Melbourne (Sat 14/2) and the Greek Festival of Sydney in Darling Harbour (Sun 15/2).

In what has become a feature of the two closely knit community festivals, a well-known artist from Greece headlines their respective programs and this year’s announcement ensures a set-list of popular classics. Basis will be joined onstage by Zoi Papadopoulou and backed by a 7 piece band.

Jorge Menidis, Director of The Greek Centre in Melbourne said: “Melbourne and its people have shown great love for Greek culture and we are once again pleased to bring the best of Greece to the heart of the city. The Festival is honored to host these two performers who will bring the street alive with a mix of popular and traditional Greek music that will appeal to people of all ages.”

Meanwhile, according to Nia Karteris, Chair of The Greek Festival of Sydney, “our community enthusiastically embraces all aspects of Greek culture, but especially music. It is for this reason that we are thrilled to have Basis and Papadopoulou at our festival to provide what will no doubt be an unforgettable musical performance in the absolutely spirited environment of Darling Harbour.”

Basis has performed with some of Greece’s premium musicians and is a regular vocalist with the “Mikis Theodorakis” Orchestra. With a diploma in Byzantine music, he started chanting the liturgy in the local church before taking his first steps in professional singing at the age of 20.

Over the years, he has released many albums that have been a success in Greece and across Europe. “I am excited to be travelling to Melbourne and Sydney to perform at the 2015 Lonsdale Street Festival and the 2015 Greek Festival of Sydney. To see such a large celebration of Greek culture so far away from Greece is a testament to the strength of the Greek community to share our culture with the rest of Australia,” he said.