INFORMATION PACK

www.patras2006.gr

UPDATED: 07.11.05

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A MESSAGE BY PETROS TATOULIS, DEPUTY MINISTER OF CULTURE

The way we perceive Culture depends on the way we perceive life itself; it depends on the way we perceive our own existence. Especially for us, Greeks, Culture has always been our passport for our trip through time. We have bet to organise successfully the European Capital of Culture, “Patras 2006”. We will win this great bet through hard work and cooperation with all local authorities. Our ambition is to organize the Institution in a way that will make the citizens to take pride in their city; at the same time we will try to achieve one of our main objectives, namely the reinforcement of the development process of Achaia and Western Greece.

Petros Tatoulis,Deputy Minister of the Greek Ministry of Culture

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A WELCOME NOTE… Patras the third largest city of Greece was designated to be the European Capital of Culture for the year of 2006. The city of the sun and the sea, the city of youth and culture, the city of joy and the Carnival is getting prepared to welcome the citizens of Europe, the citizens of the world. Patras, was named after Patreas, of the Ancient Greek Mythology. It is the city of the Apostle St. Andrew; a city that has shaped a unique multicultural identity throughout the centuries. Being the greatest Gate of Greece towards the West, she was bound to be a place guaranteeing the free expression of ideas and the reinforcement of the institutions forming a cultural context corresponding to the great European vision. We are waiting for you to experience this unique feast of culture and bring about what makes Europe different and unique!

Andreas KARAVOLAS, Mayor of the City of Patras

PATRAS… Patras is located at the Western part of Greece’s mainland on the Northwestern coast of Peloponnesus. The city is sited right in the middle of an imaginary triangle formed by three locations of major archeological importance: Ancient Delphi in the north, Epidaurus in the south-east and Olympia in the south-west, whereas, at the same time, it is placed between the Mount Panachaiko and the Gulf of Patras, which links the city with Aitoloakarnania and the Ionian Islands. Patras, the third largest city of Greece, has always been a path to Europe, a Gate towards the West and a commercial channel to the ports of Italy, France and England. Probably, Patras already existed before the Peloponnesian War, which took place in 431 B.C. In Roman times, Emperors like Tiberius, Nero and Adriano, ceded several privileges to Patras, turning the city into one of glory and wealth. In 1821, Patras was one of the first cities to revolt against the Turkish occupation. Because of its strategic importance, the city was almost completely destroyed during the Revolution. During the 19th century, Patras met an impressive commercial and economic growth thanks to its port. The city regained its past historical, economical and cultural decisive role and, became once more, a place of cultural exchange and creation. Today, Patras is a cosmopolitan city and remains a place where new ideas, ever renewed conceptions and avant-garde philosophical movements are flourishing. Being the metropolis of Western Greece, the city is well-connected to the rest of the country, through a highly developed transportation system. Europe’s biggest cable-stayed bridge links Patras with the central and northern part of the country. The University of Patras provides all necessary expertise for both scientific and artistic activity, encouraging the city to move towards further development. The fifty thousand University students living in Patras are pumping youth and vitality in the city’s arteries. Patras has always been a city favored by History and Geography. Throughout history, Patras has proven its ability to appreciate and incorporate cultural diversity. The year of 2006 can become the starting point for the development course of Patras throughout the 21st century; a driving force for the European integration process. In 2006 in Patras, we will make use of a common language; the language of Culture.

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THE EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE; PATRAS 2006… The “European Capitals of Culture” scheme was launched in 1985 by the Council of Ministers on the initiative of Melina Mercouri, the then Minister of Culture in Greece. Melina’s dream was to foster deeper knowledge of the differences and similarities of European cultures among the European Union’s member-states, in order to learn to communicate using the language of Culture. Athens was the first city to host the Institution of the European Capital of Culture, in 1985. Ever since, each year, at least one European city is being awarded the title of the “European Capital of Culture”. The city of Patras was designated to be the “European Capital of Culture” for the year of 2006. The main concept of the “European Capital of Culture – Patras 2006” is to bring the citizens of Europe closer, in order to enhance cultural exchange and celebrate cultural diversity. Within the boundaries of “Patras 2006”, Europeans will be offered the opportunity to meet, communicate and swap personal experiences so as to get more acquainted with each other. By bringing together all our forces we will create a common language, that of Culture. “Patras 2006”, will be the joyful meeting point for Europe’s Reunion.

A MESSAGE… The European Capital of Culture is meant to promote mutual understanding among the European countries. T. S. Eliot had stated that Europe’s cultural well-being lies on two conditions; the safeguarding of each country’s cultural identity and the acknowledgement of the common aspects existing among the various cultures. Through a series of activities, the “Patras 2006” Organisation will encourage the Europeans to get acquainted with each other; in 2006 they will meet and celebrate today’s cultural diversity; they will participate in the great feast to be hosted in Patras, the meeting place of talent, art and culture. During 2006 we will initiate a course of sustainable development for the city. The year of 2006 will become the impetus of a long-term evolution process. The city will be transformed into a place of well-balanced multilateral co-operation of a European level, fed by culture and feeding culture back. We will seize the opportunity given to Patras in order to contribute as much as possible to the mutation of the city into a place where artistic creation will bloom constantly whilst cultural, economic and social development will raise rapidly. We are convinced that through the hosting of this Institution we will succeed in promoting European cultural cooperation; developing communication networks with other European cities and regions; supporting imagination, creativity and innovation; enhancing long-term local cultural development; involving and engaging the region’s citizens into the project; attracting to Patras visitors both from within the country and abroad.

Christos Roilos,

Managing Director of the “European Capital of Culture – Patras 2006” Organization,

Representative of the Greek Ministry of Culture

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THE ORGANIZATION… On March 2005, the implementation and management of Patras 2006 was undertaken by the Organization of the “European Capital of Culture – Patras 2006 S.A”. This organisation was formed by an Act of Parliament. It has been given a very flexible legal status, being exempted from all bureaucracy procedures related to managing public funds. It is governed by the Board of Directors, consisting of fifteen members – mainly local authorities and distinguished personalities – with consulting and general policy making powers. Five members of the Board of Directors form the Executive Committee, which has the power and responsibility to run and represent the Organisation and to pursue its goals. Head of the Executive Committee is its Coordinator, Mr. Christos Roilos, who was appointed by the Greek Ministry of Culture and acts as the Managing and Executive Director of the Organisation. In addition, the Board of Directors has appointed the Composer Thanos Mikroutsikos, as the Artistic Director of the Organisation, with exclusive powers and responsibility with regard to the formation of the artistic events programme.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS… 1. KARAVOLAS Andreas, Mayor of Patras 2. MARINAKIS Pavlos, Lawyer 3. KAVADAS Panayiotis, General Secretary of Western Greece 4. KATSIKOPOULOS Dimitris, Prefect of Achaia 5. FLORATOS Evaggelos, Representative of the Minority of the Municipality of Patras 6. CHATZITHEODOROU Christos, Dean of the University of Patras 7. SIAFARIKAS Panayiotis, Professor of the University of Patras 8. ALEXOPOULOS Grigoris, Head of the Local Union of Municipalities and Communities 9. VARAKIS Ioannis, Professor of the University of Patras 10. GATOPOULOU Eugenia, Director of the Service of Monuments of Western Greece 11. KARAXALIOS Spiros, President of Patra’s Cultural Development Municipal Enterprises 12. PAIPETIS Stefanos, Professor of the University of Patras 13. POLIDOROPOULOS Aggelos, Professor at the Technological Educational Institution of

Patras 14. ROUMELIOTIS Dimitris, Civil Engineer 15. ROILOS Christos, Managing Director of the Organisation and Representative of the

Greek Ministry of Culture

THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE …

1. ROILOS Christos, Managing Director of the Organisation and Representative of the Greek Ministry of Culture

2. KARAVOLAS Andreas, Mayor of Patras 3. KATSIKOPOULOS Dimitris, Prefect of Achaia 4. ROUMELIOTIS Dimitris, Civil Engineer 5. POLIDOROPOULOS Aggelos, Professor of the Technological Educational; Institution of

Patras

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THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR… My firm belief has always been that the designation of Patras as the European Capital of Culture should and can initiate a course of sustainable development and transformation for the city, a course in which culture will have the leading role, recognized both as a means and an end in itself. Patras 2006 should be more than a one-year-long festival. It should be the impetus for the beginning of a multilateral, well-balanced and long-term process of development, fed by culture and, in turn, feeding culture back. The construction and the actual content of the program is keeping up with the principle mentioned above, based on the following four points:

• Enhancing the visibility and profile of the city and its cultural life both nationally and internationally.

• Bringing lasting improvements to the cultural institutions and artistic community through coordinated and strategic collaboration and interaction.

• Promoting creative co-operation and building networks with artists from all over Greece and abroad.

• Highlight the historical route and tradition of the city and the wider region focusing on its being the Gateway of Greece to Western Europe from antiquity to date.

The realization that it was necessary to develop a clearly defined program that could effectively work not only during the year of the designation but also further than 2006, led to the program being structured in eight themed periods - each of them having the potential to stand as a festival on its own. Every cycle reflects the specific objectives listed above and also allows both traditional and contemporary art forms, as well as artists from all backgrounds and cultural institutions, to focus on and co-operate in a specific and distinct context. Proposed projects and events have been evaluated not only in terms of artistic value and standard, but also in terms of consistency and compatibility with the cycles of the program, with the pre-defined goals and, of course, in terms of feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Strongly rooted and linked to the needs of the city and also acknowledging the potential and aspirations within the city, we hope that Patras 2006 will provide a pilot platform for the long term rebirth of the city with art and culture as the driving force.

Thanos Mikroutsikos Artistic Director of the “European Capital of Culture, Patras 2006”

Ex Minister of Culture of Greece

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THE THEMED PERIODS… Hereunder you may find information Artistic Program’s periods and events scheduled.

Opening Days 10th January – 21st January 2006 The European Capital of Culture will open on the 10th of January with a series of high-profile events, held over a period of one week. Among others, the opening includes the inauguration of the exhibition “Leonardo Da Vinci; Scientist, Inventor, Artist”, a concert by the Symphony Orchestra of Patras and a great cinema tribute.

Carnival Days 21st January – 5th

March 2006 The fact that the Carnival has been the city’s flagship over the last 170 years, involving the overwhelming majority of citizens, could be turned into a unique advantage for promoting the city internationally through its enrichment with cultural events of high-quality and international reputation. Patras 2006 will pave the way for the reinforcement of the Carnival’s international characteristics. Cultural institutions and the citizens will co-operate for this fabulous celebration that will be placed, for the first time in a more carefully planned international context.

Days of Poetry and Music Days 27th April – 11th May 2006

This cycle is the link between the most eminent part of Patras’ artists – poets and novelists – and acclaimed personalities from Greece and abroad involved in this field. It also involves music associated with poetry, as in Greece there is a great tradition of setting poetry to music, especially after the Second World War. During the same period, close co-operation with the most noteworthy literary journals will be developed.

Contemporary Approaches to Ancient Drama 19th May – 4th June 2006 The aim of this cycle is to provide a platform for international debate on the endurance of Ancient Drama. Greek and international artists have been invited to explore the significance of ancient drama today, giving experimental and innovative performances at indoor venues. It is obvious that the focus rests on the work of the younger generation.

Travelling with… Music, Theatre, Dance and Cinema end of June – mid September 2006 This cycle includes major events, laying emphasis on performing arts, with the participation of distinguished artists and ensembles of this field. The aims are to attract a wide audience and to promote co-operation and creative exchange between artists from different countries and cultural backgrounds live on stage. Part of this programme will also tour throughout the wider region of Achaia and the neighbouring prefectures.

Days of Religion and Arts November 2006 Focusing on the “first-called” apostle, St. Andrew, who lived and martyred in Patras, this cycle seeks to explore the ecumenical dimension of his work, as his preaching extends as far as Edinburgh, Rome and St. Petersburg. In parallel to the core project of this cycle, part of the programme includes artistic work inspired by religion

Children’s Art Days 1st December – 31st December 2006 Children and culture are an investment in the future. This is an attempt to create the first multiform art festival for children of such a scale ever to be held in Greece. Being bi-dimensional - educational and artistic - we aspire from the outset to turn it into one of the most exciting festivals of its kind in Europe.

Closing Days 28th – 30th December 2006

Three days of events will celebrate the end of the European Capital of Culture 2006.

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THE ARTISTIC EVENTS… Gumbo Jumbo Gogmagogs

The music group “Gogmaggogs” was created in 1955 by Lucy Nailey and Nell Catchpole, in their effort to liberate the body expression of classic music performers. The Gumbo Jumbo is a musical production combining virtuosity, powerful body movement, avant-garde theatre elements and fancy costumes. Direction: Lucy Bailey.

Opening

Days

Orchestra of Patras Director: Alexandros Mirat Gary Burton, one of the most important artists of contemporary Jazz music, is not only a unique vibraphonist but also a creative mind that has played a key role in the introduction of an impromptu approach to Jazz music performances. Dimitris Dessilas is an artist covering a large spectrum of music creations including compositions of his own. He has performed in great music halls such as the Weil Recital Hall of New York, the Queen Elizabeth Hall of London and the Music Hall of Athens. Marie-Cécile Boulard is an excellent musician that has already participated in numerous International Festivals. The three of them will perform in Patras accompanied by “Sistron”, an Ensemble of Percussion Instruments.

Opening D

ays

Patras Actually; the Labyrinth of Pictures Vassilis Cosmopoulos An exhibition that will bring to light unpublished material related to events of the city’s past. Visitors will travel in time through seven “Room-Stops” at the building of the Old Arsakeion School of Patras. Each ”Room-Stop” will constitute a separate theme; it will include audiovisual material, motion pictures and action-taking possibilities.

Opening

Days

Angels from the sky Circo Da Madrugada & Oere Group The famous Brasilian Circo Da Madugada and the French Troup of Marseille, Oere will present a high quality co-production called “Angels falling from the sky”; an air ballet of “angels” that will fall from the sky and mingle with clowns, jugglers, musicians and hip-hop dancers, culminating in an exciting on-air celebration, full of music, energy and breath-taking acrobatics.

Carnival

Days

Lâcher de Violons Transe Express This famous French group was formed in 1982 by the artist Brigitte Burdin and the writer Gilles Rhode. Today, the “Transe Express” is a group internationally known for their talent in combining various art forms such as music, dance, literature, theatre and plastic arts. Great performances such as the “Mobile Homme” for the 1992 Winter Olympic Games and the “Les 2000 Coups de Minuit” for the celebration of the Millenium at the Pompidou Centre in Paris, have proved of the group’s international high profile. In 2006, the group will present the “Lâcher de Violons”; a musical multiple-show of high aesthetic quality featuring musician-acrobats and referring to the dialogue between Earth and Sky. The batteries’ sounds will meet the fragile sounds of a string quartet and the song of a flying lyric singer.

Carnival D

ays

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The Spirit of China China’s National Acrobatic Troupe China’s National Acrobatic Troupe, founded fifty years ago, is the oldest acrobatic group of China. It has already been awarded with 32 golden medals in national and international competitions. In Patras, the group will present the third and most updated version of the show “The Spirit of China”; a show that has already been awarded six times and has always been enthusiastically applauded all over the world.

Carnival

Days

The First Vienna Vegetable Orchestra The first Viennese Vegetable Orchestra consists exclusively of vegetable-based instruments: carrots, cucumbers, aubergines and pumpkins instead of guitars and drums. These instruments, created by the performers for each single concert, create a totally novel sound impossible to achieve through conventional music instruments. These original sounds, combined with electronic and classic music give the concerts a comical sound provoking the audience’s excitement!

Carnival

Days

Cabaret Toulouse Lautrec Flora Purim - Airto Moreira and Jam Band Airto Moreira from Brazil is one of the most famous percussion instrument players of the world. Flora Purim belongs to the most well-known singers of Jazz and Latin music and has been awarded with the Grammy Prize twice. The two artists created, in 1974, the “Fingers” and today they can find themselves among the most progressive artists of “Electric Jazz” music.

Carnival

Days

Unethical Poetry Ionian Theatre The Ionian Theatre is going to mount a range of mini-performances that will fill the city’s heart with joy throughout the Carnival Period. Disguised actors, acrobats and dancers will bring live music and theatrical poetry in the city centre. The ensemble will “penetrate” the lives of the passers-by and upset them with sarcastic and vulgar jokes, disturbing the citizens’ routine and daily habits. Text Redaction: Vassilis Ladas.

Carnival

Days

The Ultimate Mask; Falimento Attis Theatre “The Ultimate Mask”, was created upon request of PATRAS 2006 and is a theatrical ode to the city of Patras, which examins the city’s history and identity. The core axe of the play is dedicated to old city myths, as that of the Patrinella Ghost. Both male and female characters will be performed by men, an element which emphasises the tragic aspects of the play. The scenario is written by Costas Logaras, an excellent and well-known writer from Patras. Direction by Theodoros Terzopoulos and the “Attis Theatre”.

Carnival

Days

La commedia dell’Arte Centro Nazionale Teatrale The “Centro Nazionale Teatrale” is a Cultural Association founded in 1988 by Sergio Pisapia Fiore. Pisapia is a descendant of an Art family with more than two hundred years of theatrical history. His foundation aims in ensuring the transmission of the Comedia dell’ Arte tradition to future generations. The performance to be presented in Patras is an anthology of unpublished and innovative scenarios discussing the birth, evolution, decline and renaissance of Commedia dell’ Arte from the 15th century until today.

Carnival

Days

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Nuova Compagnia di Canto Popolare Giovanni Mauriello Giovanni Mauriello, the co-founder of the historical Italian artistic ensemble, presents the concert entitled “Nel Segno di Parthenope”, which is celebrating all local cultures of the south-western Italy through a feast of sounds, colors, dancing and theatrical acts. It is a representation of the vivid tradition of singing in Naples, as interpreted by 10 excellent musicians, who skillfully link the old with the new through a range of melodies originated from the Arabic, Turkish and Greek cultures, only to travel the audience back in time to the 17th century Naples.

Carnival

Days

Gargantua and Pantacruel Carnival Atelier of Patras A unique street performance based on the book of Francois Rabelais will be carried out by the Carnival Atelier of Patras. The play refers to the principal characteristics of the Carnival tradition. All members of the “Carnival Atelier of Patras” will perform while being disguised in original carnival suits.

Carnival

Days

Cabaret Toulouse Lautrec Quinteto Tangarto The Quinteto Tangarto is the most important Greek group of Tango music. Its members are especially interested in Astor Piazolla’s work and always focus on the intense expression of feelings when performing. Their performance in Patras will include Piazolla’s compositions for Quinteto. Also participating: the Dance Group “Tango Sabor” and the Dancers Nora Ralli and Panayiotis Karaboulas.

Carnival

Days

Concert by the Orchestra of Patras Maestro: Alexandros Myrat A concert under the direction of the distinguished Maestro Alexandros Myrat. Compositions originally composed for well-known films like “Psycho”, “The Hours”, “Terra incognita”, “Il etait une fois en Amerique” and “Face of Another” as well as other exceptional music works by famous musicians, such as Hernmann, Philipp Glass, Kypourgos, Morricone and Toru Takemitsu will be performed during the first part of the concert. During the second part, the famous musician, Stavros Landias, will present his new work for the very first time; a work composed for the specific concert. Saxophone: Houndis. Piano: Landias.

Carnival

Days

Cabaret Toulouse Lautrec Danse Ensemble “Parousia” A production that brings out dual oppositions; the grotesque versus the graceful, the vulgar and folk differentiating from the elegant; the contradiction of the most melancholic couple to the happiest one of all. Based on the works and sketches of the internationally famous painter, the Dance Ensemble defies all norms in order to construct their own representations, their own “Montmartre”, their own tragic set of oppositions. Hall: Ptochokomeio.

Carnival

Days

The Orchestra of Patras Direction: Constantia Gourzi A unique concert under the direction of the famous maestro Constantia Gourzi. The Orchestra of Patras will perform the works Adagietto (G. Mahler), Serenade (L. Bernstein), Apollon Musagete (Stravinsky) and Fantasia (Adamopoulos). The concert will take lace on the 10th February 2006 at the pre-built Theatre of Patras.

Carnival

Days

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Music Theatre in the Street A street performance of ten huge dolls, representing persons, animals, plants… and in the middle, an actor playing the role of the maestro. This group of these strange creatures will invite the public to dance in the sounds of well known songs. An impressing performance, possible to be seen by far since the dolls will be of an extreme height! The performance will take place on the 1st and 2nd of March at the Gerokostopoulou Stairs of the old part of the city. Event co-ordination: Ntouli Dimitropoulou. Direction: Milton Nikas. Music by Stavros Papastavrou.

Carnival D

ays

One of the Last Nights of Carnival Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras – Vassilis Papavassiliou The Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras will put on Carlo Goldoni’s theatrical play entitled “One of the Last Nights of Carnival”, starring Lydia Photopoulou. Particpating artists: Alexandra Sakelaropoulou, Yierassimos Yiennatas, Katerina Lechou, Sofia Seyrli, Theodore Katsafasos, Costas Galanakis, Marianthi Fotaki and others. Translation and Direction: Vassilis Papavassiliou. Settings and Costumes: Marie Noel Seme. Music: Theodore Ambatzis. Choreography: Cecile Mikroutsikos.

Carnival

Days

Fonteneblo from Oblo A carnival comedy; a parody of this city’s people, life-style, mentality and of course… a satire of the European Capital of Culture itself. The sketches to be presented will unfold in an abandoned place and derive from well-known performances mixed with dialogues among people that desire to influence the arts field. The event will include music and dance performances. The texts, music, costumes, choreography and settings will be exclusively created by members of the Carnival Committee. The event will take place at the Apollo Municipal Theatre.

Carnival D

ays

The Story Telling Project Spiza Group This production constitutes a mixture of contemporary sounds with texts; music, voices and songs combined with innovative texts offer a new dimension to the art of story telling. The artists participating are Sofia Kamayianni (piano), Dora Panagopoulou (piano), Joe Tornabene (saxophone), Tim Ward (saxtuba), Nikos Veliotis (violin), Dina Matzari (soprano) and Rania Kelaiditi (actress).

Days of

Poetry &

Music

Spring Deceit Thodoris Economou Georgia Sillaiou (vocals) and Thodoris Economou (piano) will present the music performance “Spring Deceit”. A performance combining exciting, arousing sounds with poems and texts by Tom Waits, Nino Rota, Kurt Weill and Yannis Ritsos A performance during which music and piano are both deceived and deceiving.

Days of

Poetry &

Music

Guitar… places, ways and figures Notis Mavroudis Born in Athens in 1945, Notis Mavroudis belongs to this generation of composers who based their songs and music on the lyrics of ingenious Greek poets, like Odisseas Elitis and Kostas Kanavouris to produce songs belonging to the “Greek new wave” period and works for the international cinema. Notis Mavroudis and Panayiotis Margaris (guitar), Nikos Kouroupakis and Morfo Tsaireli (vocals) are the core members of the group. Also participating, Mariliza Polidouri, Vaggelis Zografos, Iraklis Vavatsikas.

Days of Poetry

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usic

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Ioannis Milton Refene The “Refene” Group was founded during the Carnival period of 1999. The objective of its seventy members is to express art and culture through amateur creation with a touch of elegant professionalism. “Ioannis Milton” is a melodrama based on the dual shape of a world defined by the ethics of good and evil. The roles and characters are divided in two categories; virtue and corruption. The scene represents this conflict through another semiologic dualism “the city and the countryside”. The plot puts forward the contradiction of these two worlds through the carnal attraction felt by a voluptuary noble man towards a humble bourgeois woman.

Days of Poetry

& M

usic

Yiannis Ritsos Day Dimitris Bassis and the Orchestra of Yiannis Ioannou An evening of poetry dedicated to Yiannis Ritsos, the distinguished Greek poet, will take place during the Days of Poetry and Music. The musical pieces of Mikis Theodorakis, “Epitafios” and “Romiosyni” will accompany the poets of the Lenin Prize Winner, Yiannis Ritsos.

Days of

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Michalis Archontidis Concert Orchestra of Patras under the Direction of D. Botinis The notable composer Michalis Archontidis has created music for television productions, children’s movies and cinema films. Among the great range of his compositions, though, the musician himself chose to present “Energy” (for violin and piano), “Archo” (a quartet for stringed musical instruments) a concerto for marimba and stringed instruments orchestra (a piece that will be performed in its original form), “Lament and Joy” (for a stringed orchestra) which is one of the most significant pieces of the composer and “Pontus Suite” (for a stringed orchestra in four parts). Director of the Orchestra: D. Botinis. Marimba: D. Marinakis. Piano: And. Zafiropoulos. Violin: Y. Mavridis.

Days of Poetry and

Music

Concert with Iwona Glinka A concert leaded by the famous Polish flute soloist Iwona Glinka performing compositions by Berio, Stokhausen and Thanos Mikroutsikos. The concert is divided in two parts. The first part includes the musical works: A) Luciano Berio – «Sequenza 1» (1958), B) Karlheinz Stokhausen – «IN FREUNDSCHAFT» (1977) and C) the world premiere “For a pure but brave girl” (2004) by Thanos Mikroutsikos’, whilst Thanos Mikroutsikos’ “Opera for One” (1984) will be performed during the second part.

Days of Poetry

and Music

Poems for Patras Music by the New Hellenic Quartet Patras is a city where distinguished poets and authors lived and produced an important part of their work; the city has inspired many of their creations. The most representative poems related to Patras have been selected in order to be performed during this evening of poetry. The poems have been divided into five categories: a) General approaches to the city b) Locations, c) Habitat of Patras, d) Citizens e) Unique spots in Patras. The poems will be accompanied by music created by famous composers of the city, such as Dimitris Lialios, Andreas Nezeritis and Theofilos Kavouras. Musical Performance: New Hellenic Quartet. The event will take place at the multipurpose cultural centre “Epikentro”.

Days of Poetry and

Music

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C. Logaras & E. Sotiropoulou The distinguished authors, Costas Logaras and Ersi Sotiropoulou, will deliver extracts from their works during an evening of literature. The readings will be accompanied by songs of Christos Thiveos. Guitar: Christos Thiveos, Vasso Dimitriou and Giorgos Behlivanoglou. Direction: Lefteris Yiovanidis. The event will be hosted at the Old Poorhouse of Patras

Days of

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Dimitris Kavouras – Theofilos Kavouras Band of Leukada It was in 1852 that the Band of Leukada performed for the very first time. The Band has repeatedly honored Leukada by taking part in great events, such as the Olympic Games ceremonies. The Band of Leukada has been awarded with many golden prizes and other significant distinctions. For “Patras 2006”, the Band will perform musical works written by Theofilos Kavouras, a distinguished music composer coming from. The music will be accompanied by poems of Dimitris Kavouras and extracts deriving from his latest work.

Days of Poetry

and Music

Tribute to Yiorgos Kakoulidis A music stand for the poetical and auctorial work of Yiorgos Kakoulidis, as interpreted by the historian Vasias Tsokopoulos. The poems will be read by Lyto Tsekouras, whereas Christos Thiveos will turn the meaningful words into moving lyrics. The Tribute also includes the performance of the theatrical monologue “The Sirene of Amity”, a play by Yiorgos Kakoulidis, enhanced by the projection of videos and slides. Direction: Lefteris Yiovanidis. Guitarist: Vasso Dimitriou. Piano: Nikos Kalantzakos.

Days of Poetry

and Music

Moonlight Sonata Themis Moumoulidis Yiannis Ritsos’ “Moonlight Sonata” is the title of the play that the Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras will put on during the “Days of Poetry and Music”, starring Lydia Fotopoulou. Direction: Themis Moumoulidis. Music: Thanos Mikroutsikos. Costumes: Panayiota Kokkorou. Piano: Theodore Economou. Vocals: Costas Thomaidis.

Days of

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“The People, the City, the Time” A dedication to Manolis Anagnostakis A dialogue between Manolis Anagnostakis and Vassilis Arfanis; a dialogue regarding the city, the time, the people; a dialogue dedicated to Manolis Anagnostakis, one of the most significant Greek poets of the post-war generation. Participating actors: Vassia Panagopoulou, Manolis Mavromatakis. Vocals: Kostas Thomaidis. Piano: Thodoris Oikonomou. The event will include songs by Mikis Thodorakis and will take place on the 9th May 2006 at the poorhouse of Patras

Days of

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Dionisis Karatzas An event dedicated to the work of Dionisis Karatzas with music sounds by Mikis Thodorakis and Giorgos Andreou. The Greek poet will present selected poems. The event includes beloved songs performed by famous Greek artists such as Sonia Theodoridou, Eleni Tsaligopoulou and Athina Andreadi. Also participating: the String Orchestra of Patras. Piano players: Dimitris Yiakas, Manos Achalinotopoulos, Thimios Papadopoulos. Direction: Thanasis Tsipinakis. The event will take place on the 3rd May 2006 at the Conference and Cultural Centre of the University of Patras.

Days of Poetry

and Music

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Odysseus Elitis’ “Monogramma” A poem-tribute to the senses and love. A poem set into music by the Greek composer Giorgos Kouroupos. A magnificent piece of art constituting at the same time a simple song and an intellectual creation with philosophical dimensions. The event will constitute a tribute to the Nobel awarded great Greek poet that passed away ten years ago. Date: 8 May 2006.

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Rea Galanakis Rea Galanakis is one of the most significant figures of contemporary European literature. During the event will be presented extracts of her works, dating from 1989 until today whereas as the musical background will include works such as the “Rebonds” by Iannis Xenakis and “Gioconda 87” by Thanos Mikroutsikos. Piano: Thanos Mikroutsikos. Narration by Alexandra Sakelaropoulou, Vassilis Papavasiliou and Dimitris Katalifos. Also participating: Cecile and Constantina Mikroutsikos. The event will take place on the 6th May 2006 at the pre-built Theatre.

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Women’s Poetry Famous actresses will present poems of great Greek Female Poets of today and yesterday. The poems will be accompanied by a piano performance of Kaliopi Germanou and a slides show with their photos. Lefteris Giovanidis is in charge of all direction details. The event will take place on the 2nd of May 2006 in the pre-built Theatre of Patras.

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Concert Yiotis Kiourtsoglou & Human Touch A Jazz night with Yiotis Kiourtsoglou, David Lynch and Stavros Lantsias. In the first part of the event, Yiotis Kiourtsoglou – an artist that has already co-operated with David Lynch in the past - will improvise jazz sounds accompanied by wind instruments and drums. In the second part he will meet David Lynch and Satvros Lantsias so as to shape the Human Touch and offer the public sweet melodies mixed with vibrant creations. These works, especially created for Patras, will be performed on the 6th May 2006.

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Nature, City, History; a Tribute to Nikos Gatsos An evening dedicated to the poems of Nikos Gatsos; these poems - referring to human nature – will be placed in a context of dialogue with the work of Yiannis Chrisanthopoulos. The event includes music works and songs such as the “Gnossiennes” of Eric Sati and music by Manos Chatzidakis. Artists participating: Pantelis Dentakis (poems) and Kalliopi Germanou (vocals).

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Odysseus Elitis’ “Prosanotolismoi” Andreas Kalvos’ “Odes” Set into music by Ilias Andriopoulos Two works written for orchestra and chorus performances by the Composer Ilias Andriopoulos; the work “Odes” by Andreas Kalvos and the “Prosanatolismoi” by Odysseus Elitis will be performed by the National Symphonic Orchestra. Artists participating: Tassis Christogranopoulos and Nana Venetsanou (vocals). Alexis Costalas (narrating). The concert will take place at the Conference and Cultural Centre of the University of Patras on the 10thh May 2006.

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A Folk Music Night under the Moonlight The music ensemble of the Munich’s Academy of Music and Theatre under the direction of Constantia Gourzi along with Maria Baptist (piano) and Anna Clementi (vocals) will present “Pierrot Lunaire“ by Schönberg and “Folk Songs” by Luciano Berio. The concert will take place at the Apollo Municipal Theatre on the 5th May 2006.

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Dreams, Nightmares and Myths Miltos Sachtouris and Giorgos Kozias; an artistic dialogue A tribute to Miltos Sachtouris; a musical analogue referring to dreams, nightmares and myths. The great Greeks poet’s works will be put in juxtaposition to the works of Giorgos Kozias, a poet from Patras, belonging to the post-war generation. Narration by Ilekrta Gennata and Miltos Nikas. Music by Yiannos Christou. Mezzo Soprano: Aggeliki Kathariou. Piano: Dimitris Yiakas and Thodoris Oikonomou. Vocals: Costas Thomaidis. The event will take place at the poorhouse of Patras on the 7th May 2006.

Days of Poetry

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Aeschylus’s Choiforoi A Commission of Patras 2006 to Lee Breuer In may 2006, the public will have the opportunity to attend the world premiere of Aeschylus’s Choiforoi as perceived and presented by the internationally famous Director Lee Breuer. All roles will be carried out by women, whereas the story telling will be based on traditional narration techniques. The musical background, which underlines the significance of musical elements in the Greek Ancient Drama, is a combination of sounds coming from Ancient Greece with others deriving from traditional hearings of world music. Participating artists come both from the States and Greece.

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Sophocles’s Oedipus Rex Oskaras Korsunovas Theatre The Oskaras Korsunovas theatre has already performed for the most important European stages and has participated four times at the Avignon Festival. Their repertoire includes classic plays approached in a contemporary and experimental way and vice versa. “Oedipus Rex is an absolutely non-conventional approach to Ancient Drama and has raised numerous debates, wherever hosted. Korsunova’s nihilistic approach toward Oedipus’s tragic position opens new horizons for the understanding of the Sophoclean hero.

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Heiner Müller’s Philoctetes Volksbühne am Rosa- Luxembourg Platz Berlin Dimiter Gotscheff, the Bulgarian Director, who found his way into the German theatre, has covered the entire dramatic spectrum. From Sophocles to Dea Loher and from Shakespeare to Koltès, he has developed his own theatrical language based on the principle: “empty space requires the actor’s wholeness”. This is the first time that he incarnates a character (Filoktikis) next to Joseph Bierbichler (Ulysses) and Samuel Finzi (Neoptolemos). All three performers highlight the grandeur of the play in a performance that is more of a debate than a classic theatrical action.

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Fureurs Joëlle Bouvier Company “Fureurs” by the famous French choreographer Joëlle Bouvier will be presented in Greece for the very first time. The play is based on the Drama of Antigun and constitutes an absolutely novel approach of presenting Ancient Drama through modern dance and lack of speech. The cast consists of actors coming from various countries (Spain, New Zeland, France, Corea) whilst the leading dancer, Yiota Kalimani, is Greek. The diversity of the participants’ nationalities emphasizes the play’s universal character as well as the impact of the Ancient Greek Tragedy.

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Euripides’s Bacchae Spring Theatre This theatre group based in Athens, has already performed many times not only in Greece but also abroad and has been repreatedly honored with awards. The Chorus of the play is formed by the participants of the Anastenaria, a Greek fire-walking traditional ceremony. The play aims at highlighting the never-ending battle between Ecstasy and Reason within man and society; at analyzing this battle in political, cultural and religious terms; at underlying the symbolic power that actions, such as eating raw meat, represent for society. Direction: Yiannis Margaritis.

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Euripides’ Mideia Simio Theatre & Dept. of Theatre Studies of the University of Patras This is the first time that the Department of Theatre Studies of the University of Patras cooperates with a professional artistic group. The “Simio” theatre group has been producing innovative theatrical plays for the last twenty years, mainly focusing in the finding of contemporary approaches to Ancient Drama. The objective of the play to be performed is to introduce radical ways of the Ancient Greek Drama elements, such as the Chorus.

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Ariadne’s Lament Maria Gyparakis This performance, based on the myth of Ariadne, will offer the audience the opportunity to get an insight of the evolution of myth and its relation to theatre, poetry and music throughout the last three centuries. Distinguished music works will be accompanied by literature texts referring to abandonment. Among the participating artists, one will find Giorgos Vafias (costumes and stage design), Markellos Chrysikopoulos (basso continuo) and the ensemble Accentus; a unique Austrian group of Renaissance music, directed by Thomas Wimmer. Direction: Maria Giparakis

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Aeschylus’s Agamemnon Viomichaniki Theatre A production by the theatrical group “Biomechanics”, directed by Fanis Diplas. Transferring Agamemnon from the open to close scene seems as if transferring him from the ancient to contemporary society. The communication path between the actor and the spectator is thus changing; the presentation of the myth transcends to a moment of time other than the one it was written for; the translation mutates into a “tool” of the play and simultaneously an autonomous literature creation.

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Aeschylus’s Prometheus in Chains Art Machine Theatre The Art Machine is a new theatre group that has already been very active in Patras. The ambition of the Director, Christos Strepkos, is to approach the myth of Prometheus anew and to underline all political aspects implied in it. The performance focuses on the resistance – tyranny dualism.

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Christa Wolf’s Mideia Theatre Organisation of Cyprus The theatrical space is haunted by tragic theatrical figures; the actress incarnates Mideia as perceived by Christa Wolf and presented in “Media – Voices”. Responsible for artistic and musical redaction: Director, Stefanos Kotsikos. Medeia performed by Ioanna Kammenou Siafkalis.

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“Hercules” by Heiner Muller Nikos Mastorakis The Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras puts on Heiner Muller’s “Hercules” under the direction of Nikos Mastorakis.

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Oedipus – Anti-Oedipus Themis Moumoulidis “Oedipus – Anti-Oedipus” is the second theatrical production by the Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras and will be presented during the “Contemporary Approaches to Ancient Drama” Themed Period. Director: Themis Moumoulidis.

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Just before, just after: Female Acts in Tragedy Aggeliki Stellatou The Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras presents the theatrical play “Just before, just after: Female Acts in Tragedy”. In the performance will participate the dance-theatre of Patras. The play is directed by Aggeliki Stellatou, who has also produced the choreography of the play.

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Aristophanes – A piaccere Melina Peonidou “Aristophanes – A Piaccere” is the collective presentation of chorals drawn by the works of Aristophanes set to the music of Greek music composers. The chorals will be performed vocally, but will not be accompanied by dancing, costumes or any other elements that are associated with typical theatrical performances. Also, the “rigid” term concert cannot either be attributed to this event, since it does not maintain the key characteristics of a typical choir concert; it is an energetic interpretation of chorals, transferring the audience to this magical place called theatre. Hall: Municipal Theatre. Artistic Direction and Musical Education: Melina Peonidou. Piano – Remakes: Theodore Economou. Artistic Group: A Piaccere.

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From Attik to Chatzidakis Evikoon Melos and Attica

Patras’ Ensemble “Evikoon Melos” and the Orchestra of Athens “Attica” will remind us some of the most excellent music creations composed by the “Attic”“, K. Yiannidis, M. Souyioul, M. Thodorakis and M. Chantzidakis. A musical journey that will begin with songs of the Pre-War period and will culminate with music creations written for the “Roman Agora”, “Street of Dreams”, “Epitafios,” “Axion Esti” and “Politeia”. The distinguished Soloists of the National Greek Opera, V. Karayiannis and G. Christopoulos will perform live at the recital.

Travelling…

Gustave Clauss Nikos Xidakis and Thodoros Gοnis A musical creation by the Composer Nikos Xidakis and the verse-writer Thodoros Gοnis. The performance is based on songs and texts associated with the city of Patras and aims at creating an atmosphere that will travel the spectator through the history of the city as well as that of Gustave Clauss. The performance includes both old and new songs by Xidakis and Gonnis and texts written by Politis, Thomopoulos, Triantafillou and Mpakounakis. Yiannis Psichopaidis is responsible for all artistic designs.

Traveling…

Manuel Barrueco & Cuarteto Latinoamericano Manuel Barrueco has already signed more than twelve record productions with E.M.I. and has cooperated with internationally known artists such as Toru Takemitsu, Steven Stucky and Arvo Pärt. He is an exceptional guitar player, globally recognised. His performance next to the twice Grammy-Awarded Cuarteto Latinoamericano, will give the audience a unique opportunity to enjoy excellent musical moments of Latin America. The repertoire ranges form Luigi Boccherini to Astor Piazzola.

Travelling…

Challenge Quartet Well-known Jazz music works of great musicians, such as Cole Porter, John Coltrane, Charles Mingus, Thelonius Monk, Duke Ellington and George Gerswin will be performed in an innovative way, thus proposing a new approach. The musical experimentations of the Challenge Quartet orienting Jazz toward an avant-gardist approach, incorporating ethnic, funk and minimal elements, seem to work out beautifully. Our favourite songs, once performed by Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Sheila Jordan, are remade in a way offering the audience a rather post-modern experience, whilst original compositions highlight the aesthetic excellence

Travelling…

Camerata – Friends of Music Orchestra Within the framework of the International Mozart Year, the Camerata; Friends of Music Orchestra, will tour, under the direction of Sir Neville Marriner. The tour will begin from Greece and culminate with performances in some of the most important music scenes of Austria. Patras will have the honor to host the opening concert of the international tour.

Travelling…

Trip to the End of the World Mauro di Domenica and Angel Parra This performance is a tribute to Pablo Neruda and Democracy; more than a multi-show, it is an ode to freedom. Via contemporary music and Latin-originated languages, the audience will travel to the End of the World, to Chile’s Presidential House that is still standing there to remind us what it means to “Defend Democracy”. The voices of Salvador Alliente and Pablo Neruda provoke emotional tension to the audience. Classic, traditional and electronic instruments will be accompanied by projections and other audiovisual material. Eight artists participating. The preparation and production of the event is supervised by Isabella Aliente.

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Crosswords Entropy A musical trip to the Mediterranean and Western Europe, America and Africa, via experimental and innovative approaches to Jazz music. The most influential elements of the concert are the dynamic rhythm section as well as the emotional tension provoked by the interaction of the avant-gardist, pop and rock-fusion elements of the compositions. The core compositions presented in the concert derive by “Linear” a work of Antonios Ladopoulos and “Anelixis” of Vassilis Rakopoulos.

Travelling…

The Strings Project Round & Round A musical ensemble that focuses on semiologic dualisms; electrical hearings versus natural sounds and modern music versus classic music. Laptops, synthesizers, controllers, and guitars will produce sounds in total harmony with the classic instruments of contra basso, cello and viola. The “Round & Round” are not only going to perform musical pieces from their three record productions and melodies they have produced for Theatrical Plays and Films, but also a composition specially produced for their concert in Patras, examining the possibilities of the sound engagement of electric hearings with the three stringed-instruments mentioned above.

Travelling…

Aziza Mustafa Zadeh Aziza Mustafa Zadeh from Αzerbaijan is a distinguished Jazz performer; a talented piano player that moves the audience; a crystal voice that brings to life Oriental memories. Memories filtered through the vivid rhythm of American Jazz. During the recital, she will present her new work called “Opera Jazz”; a mixture of personal compositions with famous music creations, such as Verdi’s “Pace Pace mio Dio” and Gershwin’s “Summertime”.

Travelling…

From Nino Rota to Manos Chatzidakis Maria Farantouris The distinguished singer Maria Farantouris is going to perform songs of Nino Rota, Kurt Weil, Manos Chatzidakis, Astor Piazzola and Mikis Thodorakis. Her professionalism and never-ending passion are absolutely necessary in order to successfully perform musical masterpieces based on works of Bertolt Brecht, Nikos Gatsos, Iakovos Kampanellis, Federico Garcia Lorka, Odysseus Elytis, Georgios Seferis and Yiannis Ritsos. The internationally famous pianist Yiannis Vakarelis will be accompanying Maria Farantouris.

Travelling…

Yannis Ritsos Dimitris Mpassis and the Yannis Ioannou Choir In the framework of events that will take place in order to commemorate Yannis Ritso’s work, the audience will have the opportunity to assist a performance consisting of poems of the Lenin Prize Greek poet, accompanied by two music compositions by Mikis Thodorakis; Epitafios and Romiosini.

Traveling...

Traveling with the Wind Christos Panayiotopoulos A performance dedicated to the Sea and the Wind, with songs written by Chatzidakis, Thodorakis, Loizos, Mikroutsikos, Kougioumtzis, Nikolopoulos, Spanos, Moutsis, Germanos, Portokaloglou, Xarhakos, Tsitsanis, Zampetas and other significant Greek artists. Each song… a little story; each story… a birth place of theatrical plays. The performance will unfold with the participation of an eight-member Dance Group and a six-member Choir. Direction: Nikos Dagiamos.

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Songs of Wine and Love Sakis Papadimitriou A musical performance based on poems by Sappho, Anacreontas, Alkaios and other Lyric Poets of Ancient Greece. Musical sounds mingle with voices, images and dances, creating thus a unique atmosphere. The performance is dedicated to Wine and Love; it aims at underlying the innovative and radical characteristics of the Greek Lyric Poetry; a kind of Poetry constituting an important element of the European civilization.

Traveling…

Ivo Pogorelich Ivo Pogorelich went famous in 1980 when he won the First Prize of the International Music Competition in Montreal. He is a great piano player with unique talent. He has been honored with many awards and performed all over the world. The New York Times describe him as «one of the few musicians to be that irresistible to the public».

Traveling…

Concert by the Orchestra of Patras Maestro: Maxim Shostakovich Maxim Shostakovich, the eldest son of Dimitri Shostakovich – perhaps the most dubious composer of the 20th century due to his political beliefs – will perform at the Roman Odeum of Patras. Maxim Shostakovich will both perform and direct his father’s creations. As the distinguished musician says: “To me, this music is in my blood. It comes straight from my father and, thus, it is a part of my soul. This music reminds me of my father’s expressions when he spoke”. Piano: Irina Chukovskaya – Trumpet: Edvard Antonsen Ole.

Traveling…

Concert dedicated to Nikos Zoudiaris A concert dedicated to Nikos Zoudiaris, one of the most vivid and significant creators of contemporary Greek music. The pieces to be heard and interpreted by Nikos Zoudiaris himself and Eleftheria Arvanitakis, Manolis Lydakis and Apostolos Rizos are going to refer to the entire range of works of the famous composer: from 1993, with his first album “In the World’s Agora”, until 2005, with the release of his latest album entitled “Poster”. The Concert will take place at the Roman Odeum of Patras.

Traveling…

Decachordon for Two Maria Kavouni, Stephan Popov The guitarist, Maria Kavouni, and the cellist, Stephan Popov, have collected significant musical pieces for guitar and violoncello to produce a repertoire with the most distinguished compositions; the melodies are ideal representations of their time, place of origin and atmosphere of past times. The repertoire includes contemporary Greek compositions. The musicians have adjusted their repertoire to the philosophy of “Patras 2006”, whilst they have included many works of Andreas Bazou, an exceptional musician from Patras.

Traveling…

Aristophanes’ “The Birds” Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras – Themis Moumoulidis The distinguished Greek actors Yiannis Bezos and Yierassimos Yiennatas are the main characters in Aristophanes’ “The Birds”, as directed by Themis Moumoulidis and accompanied by the music of Manos Chantzidakis. Setting – Costumes: Yiorgos Patsas.

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Patras’ Rock from the 60s and 70s Two nights at the Castle of Patras and the region of Loggo of the neibhouring city of Aegion; two nights full of old rock songs written and performed by local music groups, accompanied by young musicians and singers of the city of Patras. The concerts will consist of a string of performances of small groups of four to eight persons. Each group will sing a few songs and will be accompanied by narrations and commentaries related to the way of thinking and acting during the period of ’65 – ’75. In addition to the concerts there will be an exhibition with photos of the music groups. Event co-rdination: Andreas Adamopoulos, Loukas Adamopoulos.

Travelling…

Touring Cinema The touring cinema Project has a double aim; on one hand to maintain the old tradition of touring cinema of the period preceding the appearance of television; on the other hand to give the opportunity to residents of removed regions to enjoy twenty retro cinema productions. Some of these movies will be presented in Greece for the first time and will provide high-quality entertainment to a wide audience. The tour will begin on July and will end in August 2006.

Travelling

Non-Stop Dance Performance A dance marathon including six dance groups, three coming form Greece and three from abroad. The dance groups will present their works within the Castle of Patras but at three different places. The performances will last two whole nights, the 28th and the 29th of July 2006. Thus, visitors will be given the possibility to attend the performances of all six dance groups. Participating: Tatiana Loverdou, Marilia Chrisospathi and Mariela Nestora from Greece, Jan Pusch (Germany), Yamada Un (Japan), Pascale Houbin and Dominique Boivin (France).

Travelling…

Anne-Sophie Mutter; a Violin Recital Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart In 2006 Anne-Sophie Mutter will be celebrating her thirty years of artistic presence in the field of classical music whereas it is also the year of celebration of the 250 years since the birth of W.A. Mozart. The performance to take place will include music works for violin and piano and more creations of the great Austrian composer. Anne-Sophie Mutter will perform at the Conference and Cultural Centre of the University of Patras with the participation of L. Orkis, on the 30th August 2006.

Travelling

National Symphony Orchestra of Lithuania Direction: Mstislav Rostropovitch One of the most important personalities of the world’s music field, Mstislav Rostropovitch, acting as the Maestro of one of the most renowned orchestras of Eastern Europe. Julian Rachlin, one of the most charismatic young violinists of nowadays will perform solo. The concert will take place at the Roman Odeum of Patras on the 19th July of 2006.

Travelling

Patras’ Cinema Club Patras’ Cinema Club will participate in the artistic events of the European Capital of Culture by presenting movies and special tributes. The Program scheduled is as follows: Opening Days: two movies; Carnival Days: six movies; Days of Poetry and Music: three movies; Religion and Art Days: five movies; Closing Days: three movies. The movies will be presented at the cinemas Ideal and Pantheon.

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W. A. Mozart Requiem Solistes de Lyon and Chamber Music Orchestra of Stockholm The “Solistes de Lyon”, one of the most important European Choruses, the “Chamber Music Orchestra of Stockholm” and Four Soloists will present Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Requiem; a work inspired shortly before the composer’s death. The Chorus, the Orchestra and the Four Soloists will perform under the direction of Bernard Tétu, a Maestro and Academic, holding a leading role in the music life of France.

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Hilliard Ensemble One of the greatest music ensembles internationally recognized. The inimitable technique of the ensemble has affirmed their top-ranking both in the early days and current times of the music field. The musical performance is going to be constituted by original Medieval and Renaissance plays and by plays especially composed for the ensemble by contemporary compositors. Proof of success is the ensemble’s collaboration with distinguished orchestras, like the “BBC Symphony Orchestra” and the “London Philharmonic Orchestra” as well as with soloists of international fame like Jan Garbarek, Christoph Poppen and Monica Mauch.

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Glinka Choir of St. Petersburg Conductor: Vladislav Cernusenko The Glinka Choir, the first professional music ensemble of Russia, holds a history of more than five hundred years. Since its creation, distinguished musicians have contributed to the achievement of its aesthetic perfection. Vladislav Cernusenko, one of the most famous Conductors of the world, has been working for Glinka since 1974. Cernusenko has been honored with awards many times and his contribution is of great significance for the safeguarding of great Russian compositions of the St. Petersburg School of Music.

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Choir of the St. Andreas Catholic Church The choir of the Catholic Church of St. Andreas is going to present melodies of the important music composer Albert Andlovitz and religious motets by Sotirios Grech and Michele Comello, who have been working in Patras and have composed these specific works especially for the Choir of the Catholic Church of St Andreas. The director of the choir is Nikos Senegalias and the event will take place in the Catholic Church of St Andreas in Patras.

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The Greek Byzantine Orchestra The Greek Byzantine Orchestra under the direction of Likourgos Aggelopoulos will perform a concert based on music composed by Ioannis Koukouzelis, in order to accompany texts written by Romanos Melodos. The Saint’s canticles and the music parts will succeed one another.

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Exercise on Athos: Martyrs’ Lives Dionysios Voultsos – Ionian Theatre A theatrical study on the works of the famous authors, Papadiamantis and Dostoyesvski. They discuss through the theatrical adjustment of their writings. Setting, the dorter of a Monastery, where around the table a sleepless chorea of male monks confess through the words of the two writers.

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Concert of the Male Quartet of the Holly Church of Pantanassa “Georgios Triandis” The Male Quartet of the Holly Church of Pantanassa of Patras consists of 35 members and Theodore Chalkiopoulos, the Head of the choir. The choir chant pieces by Georgios Triandis – Head of the choir up to 1944 – as well as by other distinguished musicians (Polykratous, Katakouzinou, Lamprinidi, Sinouri etc).

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Concert with Pieces by the Composers of Byzantine Music of Patras Byzantine Chorus of Patras’ Polyphonic Choir The concert includes musical pieces by composers who have studied Byzantine Hymnology or have been engaged with the education of youngsters, mainly focusing on the tradition inherited by the Orthodox Byzantine Church music. Performance: the Byzantine Chorus of Patras’ Polyphonic Choir. Direction: Professor of Byzantine music and cantor, Mr. Yiannis Kottoros. Psalmody – Hymnography by Dionysios Eparch of Patras, Dionysakis Fotinos from Patras, Athinis Kleomenis Cantor of Patras, Valindras Nikodemos former Eparch of Patras and others.

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Symposium of Seminary Poetry The Symposium of Seminary Poetry is a meeting of preachers, priests and clerics active in the field of religious and existential poetry.

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Light “Porfira” the Organisation for Promotion of the Byzantine Civilization will present a Panorama of Byzantine Music and Art. The event will include music creations and a work by the Professor Tsimaras, especially created for the performance in Patras. Music groups participating: The “Tettix” Music Ensemble, the “Aristidis Moschos” Atelier of Traditional Music. The event will take place at the St. Andrew Church with the participation of the famous Greek singer Eleni Vitali.

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The Orchestra of Patras Direction: Alexandros Mirat The Orchestra of Patras will present a work created by Vlachopoulos with mezzo soprano Aggeliki Kathariou and also the work “Stabat Matter” by G.B. Pergolesi performed by Philippe Mas. Clarinet: Marie Cecil Boulard. Percussion instruments: Maxim Mankovskiy. Cembalo: Markellos Chrysikopoulos.

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The Most Beautiful Flower of the World Emilio Aragón Emilio Aragón, motivated by his deep love for children, prepared a special show for children and for the ones who feel like children. The event includes four well-known fairy-tales: “The Brave Tin Soldier” by Hans Christian Andersen, “The most beautiful flower of the world” by Žoze Saramago, “Babar’s Story” by Francis Poulenc and “El flautista maravilloso” by José Merino. Each fairy-tale will be narrated by a story teller and accompanied by the sounds of the State Orchestra of Thessaloniki. The story tellers are Žoze Saramago himself, his spouse Pilar del Rio Saramago and the Greek actress Athina Maximou. Music by Emilio Aragón.

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Don Giovanni - National Marionette Theatre of Prague It was in Prague in 1787 that Mozart directed for the first time the so-called “opera of the operas”. Today, the National Marionette Theatre of Prague presents this marvelous opera using marionettes dressed in old fashioned costumes; an artistic work honoring Mozart and remaining faithful to the 18th century principles. The opera will be performed according to the original Italian version, lasting two hours. Since 1991, when it was presented for the first time, the opera has been performed over two thousands times.

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Amazing Concert - Obraztsov Puppet Theatre The State “Obraztsov Puppet Theatre” was founded in 1931 in Moscow by Sergei Vladimirovich Obraztsov who, ever since, has been running it. Obraztsov is extremely talented in creating an atmosphere of spontaneity where imagination and reality meet. The «Amazing Concert» is a combined musical theater show that will be performed in Greek. The cast is formed by artists of various artistic fields, such as singers, dancers, musicians, circus tamers and jugglers, altogether offering a unique show worthy to be experienced by both children and adults.

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Ephemera Connan The Bubbleman Connan O’ Brien is a talented scientist who makes use of live music, colours and light to give life to bubbles. Using a mixture of cleaning powder and water, special laser beams and music, Conan creates a splendid visual effect. The live music constitutes an integral part of the show; a show always unique and surprising due to the unpredictable nature of the bubbles. Connan has marked great success in many festivals in Australia and Europe.

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The Chipolatas The British Chipolatas are well-known across the world for they present shows extremely tense, full of energy and life. Having already presented their work in more than twenty six countries of the five continents, they are widely open to new ideas and experiences. Their shows are full of colors, passion, music and… professionalism. The group, a mixture of jongleurs, actors, singers, dancers and acrobats, has both the knowledge and skills to uplift the children as well as the adults.

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The Song of the Sea Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras – Themis Moumoulidis For the Days of Children’s Art, the Municipal and Regional Theatre of Patras with the collaboration of the Experimental Scene of the Regional Theatre of Patras and the Dance Theatre of Patras puts on the play entitled “The Song of the Sea”, inspired by the poems and literary texts of Nikos Kavadias and set to Thanos Mikroutsikos’ music. Direction: Themis Moumoulidis. Costumes: Panayiota Kokkorou.

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Gulliver’s Travel A musical-theatrical stand, inspired by Jonathan Swift’s masterpiece “Gulliver’s Travels: Voyage to Lilliput”. The signer-narrator identifies himself with Gulliver tumbling down the unknown world of Lilliput. The musical pieces will be set to narratives or lyrics performed by both the narrator and the female signer. Novel’s adaptation & Lyrics: Ioulita Iliopoulou. Music Composition: Petros Petrakis. Vocals & Narration: Spyros Sakkas. Flute: Marilena Doris. Contrabass: Tasos Kazaglis. Hall: Epikentro.

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Teatro Delusio Familie Flöz A theatrical production during which three actors wearing masks and costumes enact twenty-nine characters. The actors’ activities are enhanced by artificial lighting and sound effects. Setting; a theatre’s backstage, where the people behind the curtains become protagonists, offering the audience the opportunity to witness intrigues, weaknesses and conflicts. The play is a well-balanced representation of two different worlds; the real world and the illusionary one. Hall: Old Poorhouse of Patras.

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“Stop” & “Con Anima” Mikropodium A unique performance of live puppets made by Lenart Andras, Mikropodium’s creator. During the performance entitled “Con Anima”, the artist reveals the figure that to his belief incorporates God; a happy face coming out of the sand and spreading life all around; two tiny figures, a man and a woman make their appearance under an apple-tree. It is the reversal of the happy days in Paradise. The “Stop” show is a fine spectacle as the technique and virtuosity of Lenart Andras create a magic atmosphere. The performance consists of a string of events with no words but a lot of classical music.

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The Apple Tree “The Apple Tree” is a story written by the Greek writer Emmanouil Roidis (1836-1904); the story is very close to being a fairy tale since it includes elements such as… magic, imagination, agony and a happy end, whilst referring to social issues. The Apple Tree, surrounded by exotic birds, various colors and bizarre sounds succeeds in overcoming any obstacles found in the way with the help of a tree, an animal and of… nature. The event will take place in the pre-built Theatre on the 1st and 2nd December 2006. Choreography: Cecile Mikroutsikou. Music by Christos Thivaios.

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Concert by Dionisis Tsaknis A musical performance by the popular Greek singer Dionisis Tsaknis. The performance consists of twelve new songs for children of all ages. It will take place in the pre-built theatre on December 2006.

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When Instruments Dance Ballet Schindowski A Bernd Schindowski dance performance for children; an orchestra dancing in a comic way enters the scene. A wild mixture of various types of instruments under the direction of a highly demanding Director. The event will take place in the pre-built Theatre of Patras on the 15th and 16th December of 2006.

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“The Cat and the Mouse” & “Moustroufinos” Pavlos Kavadias has been active in the field of Puppet Theatre since 1999. The puppets he uses for each show are unique; their heads are made by bones whereas their body in nothing less but his own hand. During the show the artist plays music and makes sounds. “The Cat and the Mouse” story is about a tiny mouse that wanted to play the accordion but the big cat tenor wouldn’t let him... Will the tiny mouse finally succeed in making his dream come true? “Moustroufinos” is a story where the hero is a father who wants to learn painting in the middle of the street but his son puts him thousands of obstacles… How will he get rid of him… ?

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“The Jungle Book” by Rudyard Kipling Ciroka Puppet Theatre The “Ciroka Puppet Theatre” will present a beloved children story; the story of Moglis, as conceived by Rudyard Kipling for his “Jungle Book”. The performance may attend children of five years old minimum.

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Chestnuts and Fairy Tales Famous fairy-tellers and writers will meet in Patras in order to narrate dearly loved folk stories, fairy-tales and myths. In the event will participate famous Greek singers narrating more stories in their own special way.

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China Puppet Art Troupe The “China Puppet Art Τroupe” has the reputation of being the greatest professional Puppet Theatre of China. During its performances the group makes use of light and sound effects and of various tricks. In Patras the Group will present six different theatre plays for children. The performances will be held within the framework of the Children’s Art Days.

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“The Witch Foufichta” & “The Vainglorious” The Ark of Myths Two fairy tales presented by puppet-actors; the actors play with the puppets thus mixing the puppet art with the art of enacting and narrating. The settings and costumes create a magical atmosphere whereas the music is changing constantly and in a sudden way. The Witch Foufichta is the weirdest witch of the whole world! She has a vacuum cleaner and upsets everybody just by pushing a button! The “Vainglorious” is a story based on the book of the famous Greek writer, Zorz Sarri. A rich young boy with a … big nose… He had never realized that he was growing up until… he fell in love with a girl. It was only then that he realized that for the others to love you, you will have, first, learn to love yourself, the way it is….

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Poemes Visuals Jordi Bertran Company Jordi Bertran Company is one of the most popular puppeteers’ groups of Spain, recognized in both Spain and abroad. In the beginning of «Poemes Visuals», an actor, the poet brings on the scene a luggage full of letters made of elastic plastic. He plays with the shapes and the sounds coming from the movement of the letters. He discovers that letters can inspire and create poetry without necessarily forming words. He develops a relationship with the letters by singing songs he plays on his guitar. Thus, he gives life to letters and creates a world full of unique characters, humour and vivid movements, denotating that letters are not only to be found on paper or in the computer, but also in the world of elegance and simplicity.

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Black - White Stathis Markopoulos & Francisco Brito Under the direction of Stathis Markopoulos and Francisco Brito, the puppeteers’ groups «AYUSAUA» and the marionette-players’ group «BARUTI… at the thread’s end» present a colorful show. Main theme of the production is the celebration of diversity, the acceptance of the “other”, the possibility of creatively co-existing as expressed though a game of colours. From the absolute lack of colors (black), the audience is witnessing a battle of colours, where each one of them tries to impose itself onto the other to end up to white, the reflection of all colours. The comical element, the music and abstract sounds are so dynamic that need no narratives.

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Gone with the Feet Laura Kiebel – Teatro dei Piedi A unique production of puppetry in which all figures are alive. The main characters of the shows are being performed by legs, knees, hands, feet and event the belly of the puppeteer. The myths and stories of the shows are originally comical and poetic; some of them are also accompanied by atmospheric and emoting music, which magnetises the interest of all people, irrelevantly of their age or cultural background. Laura Kiebel’s shows are unique in the field of puppetry.

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Children and Cinema: 1. Screenings for youngsters

Screenings of cinematic films that address to children and youngsters. The films will be chosen among a list of films that has been proposed by the members of the International Film Festival of Olympia for Children and Youngsters and by the group “Youth Plan”, a non-commercial association that has been actively involved in the field. The films included, raging among different genres (myths, documentaries, animations), have all been awarded at international film festivals.

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Children and Cinema: 2. Camera Zizanio, Juvenile Audiovisual Creation

A meeting of young artists from all over Europe that have been engaged with experimental filmmaking. The innovation for “Patras 2006” is that the children will be separated into groups that will get involved both theoretically and practically with film-making. These youngsters will have the opportunity to collaborate with distinguished cinematographers (directors, script-writers, technicians) in order to product their own film. In the theoretical part, cinematic theory and aesthetics will be studied, whilst issues related to the cinematic artistic creation and technique will be examined. The practical part will focus on the choice of the film’s subject, its research, its development and its montage. The groups will be leaded by academics.

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The Woman of Patras The woman of Patras is Panorea, an old prostitute living in Patras. Panorea will tell us the story of her life without feeling neither shy nor sorry for it. Her way of talking is rare and shows her open mind. Screenplay: Giorgos Chronas. Direction: Periklis Vassilopoulos. Acting: Irini Igglessi; Costumes and settings: Lila Karakosta.

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THEMED CYCLES…

• Visual Arts Cycle Numerous visual art projects will be taking place throughout the whole year of 2006. These projects will be either incorporated in thematic cycles or presented in an autonomous context.

Leonardo Da Vinci… Scientist, Inventor, Artist One hundred and fifty sketches and models of Da Vinci’s scientific inventions are going to be exhibited, separated into eight themed units: anatomy, mathematics & geometry, mechanics, flying machines, clockworks, hydrodynamics & bridges & channels, architecture & fortification, and armoury. The artefacts belong to one of the three collections approved by the Da Vinci Academy. Many models have been constructed since the beginning of the 20th century, based on Da Vinci’s original sketches. The visitors will have the opportunity to touch the exhibits, to set them in motion, to learn and comprehend the “anatomy of machinery”. The exhibition is completed by twelve touch-screens and six interactive programs of eight thousands pictures that offer its user significant information about Da Vinci himself, his work and the time he lived. “Leonardo Da Vinci… Inventor and Scientist” will be hosted in Greece for the very first time. It has been hosted, though, in many European galleries and has attracted more then one million visitors. The exhibition will run under the direction of Dr. Otto Letze, the Director of the Institute of Cultural Exchanges in Germany, who has been in charge of more than 200 exhibitions in Museums all over the world.

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The Mask and the Politics; the world’s Cartoonists in Patras This project will unfold in two phases. During the first phase, fifty one cartoonists from Europe, U.S.A and Greece, will meet in Patras in order to create innovative and original cartoons related to the theme “The Mask and the Politics”. Among the participants, one will meet internationally known artists of the field; artists who work for newspapers, such as “The Guardian” , “Le Monde”, “La Republica”, “Ta Nea” and many more. During the second phase, all cartoons will be presented for the Carnival Period, whereas selected works will be enlarged into king size wall papers that will decorate the city.

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The ‘70s; doubt, reversal, utopia… Recent history has never been the “enfant gate” of Art Historians. Why is that so? The objective of this exhibition is to enlighten this question. The ‘70s represent a period of significant rearrangement in both the political and e artistic world. In Greece, the political conditions create a bizarre environment for the evolution of arts. Still, this period is marked by the creations of some of the most important Greek artists. How is that? One will have to come and visit the exhibition to find out… Among the artists participating are Alexis Akrithakis, Nikos Zikos, Nikos Panayiotopoulos, Manolis Mpampousis, Pantelis Xagoraris, George Lazogas, Vana Xenou and Yiannis Bouteas.

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The Artists’ School A challenging invitation to fifty young Greek artists to “take over” and re-arrange with their works one of the most unique and interesting educational spaces of modern Greece: the Old Arsakeio School of Patras. The exhibition aims at showing the contemporary trends and the innovative tendencies that hold a key role in the field of plastic arts in Greece today, through the presentation of the work of Greece’s most important artists of the last 15-20 years. Surpassing the parameters of the conventional account of the new artistic currents, the actual building of the old Arsakeio is going to host the symbolic and realistic development of the works and the debate between artistic differences. The artists participating are going to use all kinds of art forms; drawing-painting, sculpture, installations, videos, photographs. A catalogue of the exhibition will be available. Curator: Nadia Argyropoulou, Art Historian.

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Agiou Nikolaou Street Anthi Tomara An avant- garde creation transferring the visitor to the past and creating a map of street life moments and of everyday human thoughts. The installation to be presented, under the sounds of the municipal band, is related to art techniques of motion and still pictures, neon lights, sounds and water.

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Fluidity of time and space II… Charis Pressas A photo exhibition, mapping out all local carnival events, focusing on those that unfold during the night… Twenty-one carefully selected night themes will be digitally reproduced and framed on canvas. The exhibition will also include an audiovisual installation.

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From Writing to Graphic Arts Antonis Papantonopoulos An exhibition deriving from a five-year research related to the evolution of writing and the birth of graphic arts. The exhibition will consist of forty innovative constructions presenting visual creations and the graphic tools used. A bilingual catalogue including photos, explanatory notes and fonts of various alphabets will be published.

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What was left unburned Vourtsis Dimitrios Designs and sketches of carnival constructions form the core axe of this exhibition. All preparation models will be presented in chronological order, giving the visitor the opportunity to have an insight of the Carival’s backstage. A catalogue about the exhibition will be published.

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Natura Madre, Natura Morte Stathis Chrysikopoulos An interactive installation infused by a sense of mystery. The visitor is the “person” drastically participating into a ceremony. S/he is the “actor” moving within the boundaries of space. S/he is the enactor of the ceremony. The installation lies within a corridor of 15m length and represents the traveller’s symbolic journey from Natura Madre to Natura Morte. For this work the composer and professor Filimonas Lambrou offered his help. A catalogue will be published.

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Children in Patras Anna Papoulia and Nelly Tragousti The recognised photographers Anna Papoulia and Nelly Tragousti will capture with their cameras moments of the children’s’ life in Patras; the aim is to underline the distance existing between the real Patras and the children’s wishful city. Along with the photo exhibition, an audio installation will vividly demonstrate the way children experience the city in contrast to their ideal fantasy habitat.

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Visual Poetry Visual Poetry was born in Ancient Greece and Alexandria. During the ‘70s it evolved into an International Movement formed by Poets and Artists. Visual Poetry includes all movements of Experimental and New Wave Poetry. The exhibition to be hosted in Patras is dedicated to Wine and will welcome almost one hundred artists of the Visual Poetry Movement.

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Patras, the Crystal City Emilia Bouriti A tour in old industrial places of the city; a tour based upon two principles, the Apollonian and the Dionysian. These two principles are being examined as elements drastically influencing the notions of time and space. The artist’s intention is to underline the need to recreate industrial spaces whilst taking into consideration their potential future use; to inspire the idea of creating a “crystal city” by presenting an installation made of ice. The Apollonian cubic construction is being incorporated by Dionysus, who represents the environment’s warmth, thus provoking a dialogue with the environment.

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Figures in a Landscape Valli Nomidou and Richard Whitlock Valli Nomidou’s sculptures incorporate small moments of life. The artist’s aim is to raise discussions regarding the role of sculpture in today’s society. Her realistic human figures will develop a dynamic relationship with Richard Whitlock’s works, thus mutating from artefacts to visitors. The sculptures will be placed in public spaces. This fact remind us of the reasons we got there in the first place; obligations. The visit is over; we suddenly find ourselves back to reality. Still, we will keep the memory of this imaginary shot from a film with no ending… Richard Whitlock frequently uses “unusual” and “unexpected” places to exhibit his works; in this way he succeeds in creating an intuitive atmosphere.

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A Cultural Journey, 20 Years of European Capitals Network of European Cultural Capitals and Months This exhibition is journey to the history of the European Capitals of Culture Institution; a presentation of cities that have been awarded the title. Visitors will have the opportunity to have a look at original promoting material that have been used in the past by hosting cities, printed and audiovisual material related to great events organized in the framework of the institution and many photographs.

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International Exhibition of Puppetry Puppetry Museum of Stockholm The International Exhibition of Puppetry will include a range of artefacts and displays, originally located in the Puppetry Museum in Stockholm. During the exhibition, special seminars both for professional puppeteers and children will take place. Direction: the Founder and Head of the Puppetry Museum of Stockholm, Professor Michael Meschke and the Museum’s Curator, Elizabeth Beijer.

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Road toward the West Kyriakos Kantzourakis The theme of this installation is immigration toward Greece and Europe. The artefact is separated into three parts: Artistic – Theatrical – Cinematic; each one of them constitutes an independant entity. The play “Café Omonoia” will be put on during the theatrical part of the production. One could argue it to be a political cabaret. Exhibition Hall of Ladopoulos.

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Apostle Andrew in Art and Worshiping The exhibition will consist of Byzantine mosaics and paintings as well as other art works covering the period between the sixth and the twentieth century. Among the exhibits there will be findings currently hosted by the National Archeological Museum of Sofia, an engraving of St. Andrew, made by Andrea Mantegna and a painting of El Greco currently hosted by the Greco Museum in Toledo. A scientific team of the Byzantine Museum will be in charge of the exhibition. The exhibition will be open for the public from the 20th October to the 21st December and will be hosted in the Maragopoulos building.

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Patras; from Antiquity to Now An exhibition regarding the history of the city of Patras, presenting original editions of the period between the 15th and the 20th century, press information material, old posters and magazines, paintings, maps, archeological findings, architectural designs and more…

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Photograma An exhibition consisting of photos presenting the old paper factory of Ladopoulos and the lives of people that worked into it. The exhibition includes 150 photos printed according to old typography methods plus a video installation offering the visitor an artistic overview of the evolution of this industrial place. Historians and museum experts will co-operate in order to present the evolution of the paper, the writing and the book. The exhibition will be hosted at the old paper factory of Ladopoulos from July to August 2006.

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Public and Private Greek Writings From the archive of Antonis and Kiriakos Skiathas The historic archive of Antonis and Kiriakos Skiathas was formed throughout the last twenty-five years and includes private and public writings of Greeks from 1821 to nowadays. The writings refer to historic events that took place in Greece and include many writings of heroes of the Revolution of 1821. The exhibition will be hosted at the Maragopoulos building and will be open to the public from March to May 2006.

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• Publications Cycle Publications, printed and digital material as well as audiovisual material will be produced in order to offer high-quality information regarding the local cultural traditions, the artists of Patras, the art events taking place in the region and… more that you will have to discover! Hereunder, a few of them will be revealed.

Tastes of the Achaians Sophia Christopoulou An attempt to map the city’s cultural elements through the local food tradition; Recipes originating from the city of Patras, accompanied by stories associated with them and references to gastronomic influences, such as that of the Achaeans’ in the past. The book will be published in both Greek and English.

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Masks of the Carnival of Patras The masks of the Carnival of Patras are the theme of this publication signed by the Carnival Atelier. The book will contain photos from Masks worn during the last ten years at the Annual Balls of the Carnival Committee at the Municipal Theater “Apollon”. Texts redacted by K. Filopoulos, G. Bogdanopoulos, V. Kaspiris. Comments by K. Magnis. Editorship by A. Papantonopoulos.

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Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Monasteries of Achaia Myrto Georgopoulou A book presenting Achaian Monasteries selected according to their historical and archaeological significance; the safeguarding of their architectural features until today; their location in relation to the surrounding habitat and the access one has to them via “easy-to-drive-through” routes. The monuments’ presentation will be divided in several sections, offering thus the reader ideas for one-day visit journeys. The publication is a collective work of archeologists with expertise in this field.

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Patras’ History for Children Andreas Angelopoulos New Media will be used in this effort to produce educational digital material for children. The juvenile visitors will have the opportunity to gain knowledge of the historical evolution of Patras from the prehistoric ages to modern times and learn about the monuments, institutions and traditions of the city through still and motion pictures and educational games.

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The 120 Greatest Reportages on Patras An album recording important events and distinguished personalities from the city’s past. The main aim is to show the city’s evolution through time. The Newspaper “Peloponnesus” is responsible for the editing, redaction and production of the album.

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Patras; Kotinos S.A. A four hundred pages Album, with photographs of the old city of Patras; posters, maps, sketches, and images; texts written by well-known authors, archeologists and other personalities of the Art field.

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String Quartet of Patra’s Composers New Hellenic Quartet A digital edition including string quartets by composers coming from the city of Patras. The repertoire includes works by Theofilos Kavouras (1930-1974), Dimitris Liolios (1869-1940) and Andreas Nezeritis (1897-1980).

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Contemporary Poetry in Patras – from the 50sdecade to the Beginning of the 21st century An anthology of Patras’ poets, whose works have been published by the greatest Houses, set to music by Greek composers, during a period that social and academic institutions pay tribute to their ingeniuses. A bilingual publication: in Greek and French. Translation: Michel Volkovitch. Making of anthology and Introduction: Aris Droukopoulos.

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The Art of Karagiozis Yiorgos Yiannaris This publication is the productive outcome of the extensive research of Yiorgos Yiannaris and it is the collective work of plays written for the Greek Puppet Theatre, which have either been presented in Patras or have been originally written and played in the city. The majority of the scripts come from the private collections of Yiannis Makris and Yiannis Mourelatos – or as known in the city – Yiannaros. The scenarios will be accompanied by the CVs of their creators and a detailed introductory note written by Yiannaris himself, which will focus on the evolution of the Greek Puppet Theatre. The publication will be available with puppets and settings that belong to Costas Makris and Yiannaros.

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The Development of a Provincial Metropolis Panayiotis Iliopoulos An academic work that focuses on the history of the urban region of Patras from 19th centrury until today. The theme examined in this publication is Patras’ transformation from a small town into a provincial capital. An innovative historical study of the Greek urban region, interesting for anyone that seeks his/her own past through the city’s history.

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Patras – Amsterdam: Two Ports Alexandra Zois This publication is Alexandra Zois’ personal diary, in which she describes her personal experience of immigration; transceding from Patras to the northern-baroque Amsterdam, she has no choice but to compare the two cities. The liaison of the two cities is the immigrant who moves from one place to another and longs for her birthplace, even if she has “voluntarily” left home. The publication includes texts and photographs of the author who refer to both the cities-ports: Patras and Amsterdam.

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Piano Chamber Music Female Composers from Patras A digital edition including music works for piano by Antigoni Papamikropoulou (1889-1980), Eleni Ikonomopoulou (1912-1999), Vassiliki Filipaiou, Esthir Lemi and Rena Apostolopoulou. Piano player: Kaliopi Germanou.

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Dictionary of Patras’ Composers This edition will include all male and female composers born in Patras since the 19th century. The information regarding each composer will be the result of research in archived material. This will be the first attempt to register this city’s history of music. Of course, the information related to contemporary artists cannot be absolutely complete since most of these people are still creating music works. Panayiotis Andriopoulos is in charge of the Dictionary’s writing and all related research.

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WHAT ABOUT EUROPE?

“What about Europe?” is the title of a series of Conferences that will take place within the framework of the “European Capital of Culture- Patras 2006”. The aim is to encourage a debate; to encourage the expression of various viewpoints on the basis of open dialogue. The topics of the three Conferences will all have a common framework; Culture. Participants will have the opportunity to examine and discuss the relation existing between Culture and Media, Science and Politics. The objective of the Conferences is to contribute to the sound formation of a common European culture. The dates for the Conferences to be held are as follows:

Media and Culture: 25 - 29 March 2006 Science and Culture: 5 - 10 June 2006 Politics and Culture: Autumn 2006

The topics of the conferences will be discussed via an Internet Forum a month and a half before the beginning of each conference. The debates will be broadcasted live through the Internet and through a special TV show of the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation, (ERT), the Organisation’s Communication Sponsor. The European Union has welcomed this initiative, recognising the significance of these debates for the European integration. Our long-term aim is to create the basis for an Observatory of the European Integration Process. Conferences will take place in Patras every two years and will focus on topics prepared through e-debate before the Conferences. The Conferences will take place at the Conference Centre of the University of Patras. Each one will welcome four hundred personalities from Greece and abroad; among the participants, there will be politicians, Nobel Prize nominees, artists, journalists, scientists, publishers, businessmen, NGO representatives and more. The “Media and Culture” Conference will focus on the relation existing between Culture and the Mass Media today. The main topics to be discussed will be the impact of the media on the creation, acceptance and evolution of cultural preferences and the role of the Press in the shaping of cultural identity in Europe. Having as a framework the European integration, there is particular interest in the way the media reflect the diverse cultures of the European Union and the various aspects of each culture. The fact that the participants are journalists is of a major importance, since they can become “distributors” of their experience in Patras. The “Media and Culture” Conference consists of six thematic units:

The influence of the metropolitan model on the shaping of cultural preferences. The aggressive politics of media against a “different” culture and the role of media Media and Culture within the Internet framework How do Media perceive the creators and vise- versa? How are the 25 different cultures of the new Europe being reflected? Culture, Media and Ethics

The “Science and Culture” Conference examines the gap between the achievements of contemporary Science and Technology and those of Culture, through the study of the critical issues of contemporary society. All guest lecturers are professionals form the fields of Culture, Science or Technology. The speakers will debate on the effects of the technological evolution on Culture and will put forward arguments and ideas in order to gain an insight of the interactive relation of Science with Culture.

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The main issues to be discussed are:

Energy and environmental problems Prospects of various scientific disciplines in Europe and the world Science and Religion Science, Information Technology and Culture The futuristic city and Culture

The aim of the Conference “Politics and Culture” is the emergence of a cultural management model structure on a local, regional, governmental and european level. Representatives of all european countries will state their approaches on the relation between politics and culture. The Conference will close with a “Map” on European Cultural Integration, to be signed by the Ministers of Culture of the Europeam member-states.

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THE VOLUNTEERS PROGRAM… General Information The Volunteers Department of the “Patras 2006” Organization is in charge of the planning and implementation of the Volunteers Program. Mr. Aggelos Polidoropoulos, member of the Executive Committee, is the Head of the Volunteers’ Department. The Department is supported by the Volunteers’ Managing Committee consisting of nine members. The Committee is responsible for the proper implementation of the Program, the overall management of the Volunteers’ Group and the coordination of the team leaders. The Volunteers Program includes several areas of involvement. Thus, Volunteers have the possibility to choose their field of action. The areas of involvement are:

1. Spectator Services 2. Information Services 3. Technical Support Services 4. Tourist Guiding 5. Events’ Organization Services 6. Publications 7. Secretarial Support 8. Medical Services 9. Promotion of Information Material

Volunteers will not be committed for the whole year, if they do not wish so. Participants can choose the season and length of their participation in the Program. This period may vary between one month and one year. In detail, the periods are as follows:

1. One month 2. Two months 3. Three months 4. Six months 5. Twelve months

The Program’s Structure

The Volunteers Program includes the Communication of the Program, the Selection, Placement, Training and Recognition of Volunteers. Communication of the Program Initially a communication campaign will take place, in order to inform the public. Presentations of the Program will take place in the city, regarding the Philosophy of the Program, the Principles of Volunteering and the implementation process. During this period, citizens will be systematically informed via press releases, published interviews and various types of activities. The Patras 2006 Organization will be supported by local cultural and educational institutions and Volunteers’ organizations, in order to ascertain success of the Communication campaign. Selection and Placement Volunteers will be selected following interviews conducted by specialized staff. The purpose of the interviews is to place the right persons on the right post, according to each person’s skills. During the interview, volunteers will have the opportunity to discuss with the coordinator about the period of time and the area of involvement they prefer.

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Training During the Training phase, Volunteers will develop the skills and gain the knowledge required, in order to meet the needs of the Program. The training consists of:

1. Information sessions regarding the History and Philosophy of the European Capital of Culture Institution as well as the Cultural Volunteering Principles.

2. On the field Training. 3. Specialized Training associated to specific tasks attributed to each Volunteer.

Participation The Volunteers Group will be divided in several teams. Each team will take action in one area of involvement and will be coordinated by one team leader. Team leaders will form groups of ten, coordinated by one member of the Volunteers Managing Committee. Volunteers will take action in various areas of the city where activities of the Patras 2006 Organization will take place. Recognition The Recognition of the Volunteers’ contribution to the organization of the Institution is of high priority for Patras 2006. The aim is to honour the Volunteers and at the same time contribute to the creation of a new tradition in the city. Sponsorship The Volunteers’ Program will be sponsored by the Dur Escape Land Company, Greece’s one of the most famous trademarks. The Company activates also in Italy and France. Through this sponsorship the Company will have the opportunity to promote its trademark that will be on the one thousand uniforms that it will produce.

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THE EUROPE@PATRAS PROGRAM… The greatest challenge for the European Union has always been, and still is, to promote the diversity of all its cultures which make up its richness and in the same time the common elements of these cultures, in order to strengthen the common cultural heritage to build Europe. The European “cultural model” is based on the respect of each cultural expression and the exchanges that enrich each culture. In this framework, the project of the European Capital of Culture has as main objective to promote each country’s civilization to make it accessible to European audiences and to create a feeling of a common European culture. Lying on these principles, the programme “Europe @ Patras” sets as main goal to achieve a genuine encounter of European citizens by approaching the cultural diversity of each member- state, as well as the accession countries and the countries of greater Europe. The message is simple: to meet each other. To learn how the residents of Europe life, think and act. In this way, culture becomes our common language that helps us build a European homeland consisting of different respectable cultures. The programme “Europe @ Patras” is to take place during the period between the 10th and the 30th of September 2006. Four big squares and different building complexes of Patras in the heart of the four Municipal Departments, will each be decorated accordingly and will host a group of countries (6- 8 countries), in order to bring the citizens and the visitors of our city closer to other neighborhoods of Europe. A special itinerary will be connecting the four main squares giving the feeling of a voyage inside the city and the European culture and making easier for tourists and visitors around our city. In the same time, this project offers a unique opportunity for the cultural and tourist promotion for the countries to be hosted. The programme will consist of open encounters of popular culture, of everyday culture. The topics of the programme include traditional music, street performances, painting, sculpture with natural material, gastronomy, entrepreneurship, folk culture, presentation of the work of artisans etc. Parallel to the presentation of the events that will come from the European countries, there will be presentations of the work of amateur artists from Patras and Western Greece Region. For this reason, it should be highlighted that we aim at the representation of all countries only from amateur artists and groups that are active on the above mentioned fields, always on the basis of voluntary local, regional and national initiatives. It is clear that well established artists and professionals that are active on the above mentioned fields, are relevant to the Central Artistic Programme and not to the “Europe @ Patras” project. The project “Europe @ Patras” is the result of a genuine dialogue with society. More precisely, for the design and implementation of the project we have the involvement of the four regional departments of the municipality of Patras, while of great importance is the interest shown by the foreign Embassies in Greece. It is to be stressed that the programme is actually based on the active participation of the citizens coming from Patras, Greece and abroad. Amateur groups and ordinary citizens will give life to this programme that is from the citizens to the citizens. We base the voluntary programme put in action by the Organization on this value, a programme that addresses citizens to participate and become a part of the experience of hosting Europe in our neighborhoods. A great advantage of this innovative project is that it can easily be broadcasted and is taking place during a period when the television programme is not very dense in cultural events.

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CONTACT DETAILS… Managing & Executive Director, Representative of the Ministry of Culture, Christos ROILOS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 025 Fax: +30 2610 368 007 E-mail Address: info@patra2006.gr Production Manager, Dimitris YOLASSIS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 038 Fax: +30 2610 368 005 E-mail Address: yolassis@patra2006.gr Communication Director, George PANAYIOTOPOULOS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 014 Fax: +30 2610 368 004 E-mail Address: panayioto@patra2006.gr Director of Finance, Dr. Ioannis PARASKEVOULAKOS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 012 Fax: +30 2610 368 001 E-mail Address: roumelioti@patra2006.gr Artistic Programming Director, Alexis K. ALATSIS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 049 Fax: +30 2610 368 006 E-mail Address: alatsis@patra2006.gr Legal Counsel, Christos SOFIS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 027 Fax: +30 2610 368 007 E-mail Address: sofis@patra2006.gr

Artistic Director, Thanos MIKROUTSIKOS Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 031 Fax: +30 2610 368 006 E-mail Address: mikroutsikos@patra2006.gr Assistant Artistic Director, Antonia KOKOVIKA Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 022 Fax: +30 2610 368 005 E-mail Address: cocovika@patra2006.gr Assistant Artistic Director, Irini VOUZELAKOU Tel. No.: +30 2610 368 017 Fax: +30 2610 368 005 E-mail Address: vouzelakou@patra2006.gr