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THE APOLLON THEATER

A miniature La Scala of Milan and cultural landmark of Syros

The Apollon Theater is a symbol of the artistic heritage of Syros. With the remarkable cultural and creative growth that came after the influx of Greek refugees from Asia Minor and other islands during the Greek Revolution, the City Council commissioned the construction of a theater in 1828 to replace temporary venues such as warehouses, coffee shops and clubs. It was eventually built in 1864, in Vardaka Square in the heart of Ermoupoli. The Italian architect Pietro Sampo incorporated several architectural themes into the building and appears to have been influenced by four Italian theaters, most notably the famous La Scala in Milan, which explains its nickname ‘La Piccola Scala’ (The Little Scala).

The two-storey exterior blended neoclassical and baroque architectural styles (with vertical shafts, an architrave and cornice, as well as arches and rectangular windows). Interior decoration included grand frescoes, chandeliers and velvet curtains.

 

Legendary performances

The Apollon Theater was inaugurated in 1864 with a rendition of Giussepe Verdi’s Rigoletto and three parallel opera performances of La Favorita, La Traviata and Ballo in maschera.

Greek and Italian theatrical and operatic troupes and actors went on to perform the most popular plays, operas and ballets of the day. Among the highlights were the appearances of legendary Greek actors Marika Kotopouli and Cybele Andrianou (better known simply as Cybele or Kyveli) in the early 20th century, by which time Syros had become a cultural landmark in the Aegean and a favourite stopover on journeys between Venice and Milan and destinations further east.

 

The Apollon Theater today

During the occupation of Syros during the Second World War, the Apollon Theater was used by the Italians and then the Germans for film screenings and it continued to be used as a cinema after liberation. It was only occasionally used as a theater and eventually closed. A long period of renovation took place between 1970 and 2000, under the artistic direction of Dimitris Fortsas and the architect Peter Pikionis. The renovation preserved the theater’s historic value and added renewed glamour, treating guests to velvet seats and four levels of boxes overlooking the stage, as well as modern amenities.

In addition to staging world-class performances by Greek and international artists and ensembles, it hosts cultural events throughout the year, including famous plays, operas and concerts, and the annual Festival of the Aegean. It is also home to the Theater Museum, which was established in 2002 and includes tributes to artists who have played an important role in its history.

Attending a performance at the Apollon Theater in Syros is a must if you are an opera or theater lover.

 

Practical Information

AREA OVERVIEW

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