Zorbas

Mikis Theodorakis composed this ballet in response to a commission by the Festival of Verona, where the work was premiered in the famous arena in 1988. The content of the ballet closely corresponds to the classic film Zorba the Greek featuring Anthony Quinn, for which Theodorakis composed the unforgettable soundtrack in 1964. The work tells the story, in 23 scenes, of the friendship between an American, John, and the Greek bon vivant, Zorba. John, who is ensnared by his striving for order and professional success, gradually learns from his friend to liberate himself from his inner compulsions and live with passion and joie de vivre. The work possesses unique flair with its gripping blend of European symphonic style, intoxicating choral singing and Greek-Cretan folk music, culminating in a rousing finale filled with the Dionysian joy of living and featuring the world-famous Sirtaki.