Mikis Theodorakis Festival Celebrates His Legacy

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The 12th Mikis Theodorakis Festival begins today, Monday, August 31, in Chania and runs through September 3, with a series of events dedicated to the life and work of the internationally renowned Greek composer.

The festival has become an established cultural institution in Chania. The Region of Crete, the Municipality of Chania and the Pan-Cretan Association “Friends of Mikis Theodorakis” organise the event, which takes place at venues across Chania and in the village of Galatas.

Speaking about Theodorakis, Chania Deputy Regional Governor Nikos Kalogeris described him as “a person of global stature,” not only because of his musical work but also because of his struggles for democracy and human rights.

Kalogeris also highlighted the composer’s deep connection with Chania.

“Mikis Theodorakis was born and grew up in Chania and chose this place as his final resting place,” he said, adding that local institutions have a responsibility to promote his life and work.

During the presentation of the festival programme, Kalogeris also discussed plans to complete the Mikis and Yannis Theodorakis Museum at the family home in Galatas. Once completed, he said, the museum will become an important point of reference for Theodorakis and his family.

Chania Mayor Panagiotis Simandirakis invited residents and visitors to attend the events of the 12th festival. He stressed the importance of the joint effort by the Municipality of Chania, the Region of Crete and the Pan-Cretan Association “Friends of Mikis Theodorakis”.

Simandirakis said the festival provides an important way to keep Theodorakis’ memory alive, maintain his connection with society and highlight his special relationship with Chania, the place he chose as his final home.

He also stressed the need to continue showcasing the cultural and social legacy of the internationally acclaimed Greek figure. The festival programme, running from August 31 to September 3, explores different aspects of Theodorakis’ personality and work through events at multiple venues.

Festival programme

The festival opens today, Monday, August 31, with the concert “The Classical & Lyrical Mikis Theodorakis – 100+1 Years Since His Birth” at the Mikis Theodorakis Theatre.

On Tuesday, September 1, the programme features the theatrical production “Mikis Theodorakis – Our Musician”, presented at the Grand Arsenal and at the Mikis & Yannis Theodorakis House in Galatas.

On Wednesday, September 2, organisers will hold the Annual Memorial Service for Mikis Theodorakis at Galatas Cemetery. A guided tour of the photography exhibition at the Grand Arsenal will follow, along with the Central Event – Political Memorial at the Mikis Theodorakis Theatre.

The festival concludes on Thursday, September 3, with the concert “Kostas Makedonas Sings Mikis Theodorakis” at the Eastern Moat Theatre.

Alongside the festival programme, the Grand Arsenal will host the exhibition “Mikis Theodorakis 1925–2026: With the Distance of Time” from September 1 to 15.

The exhibition will feature photographs and archival material documenting the life and career of the leading Greek composer.

Admission to all festival events is free.

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