On December 9, 2025, Sofia hosted a distinguished cultural event marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of two of Greece’s most influential composers – Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis. The evening celebrated Greek music, culture, and the strong cultural ties between Greece and Bulgaria.
The concert took place at Maxima Aula, University of National and World Economy (UNWE) and welcomed 190 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of academic and cultural institutions, the Greek community in Bulgaria, and friends of Greek culture.
The event was organized by the Hellenic Business Council in Bulgaria (HBCB) in cooperation with “Aristotle – Cultural Bridge”, with the kind support of numerous cultural partner organizations, and was held under the auspices of the Embassy of the Hellenic Republic in Bulgaria.
Official Opening and Addresses
The evening was officially opened by renowned Bulgarian actor Alek Alexiev.
A welcoming address was delivered by H.E. Mr. Alexios Marios Liberopoulos, Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to Bulgaria, who highlighted the universal cultural legacy of Theodorakis and Hadjidakis and the power of culture as a bridge between nations.
This was followed by an inspiring speech by the newly elected Chairman of HBCB, Mr. Panagiotis Mavridis, who emphasized HBCB’s mission to promote not only business cooperation but also cultural exchange and community engagement. He expressed gratitude to UNWE, the Embassy of Greece, the sponsors and partners of the event Coca-Cola HBC, Kostis and Alma Libre, and briefly outlined upcoming HBCB initiatives planned for early 2026.
Musical Program
The concert opened with performances by Greek tenor and pianist Georgios (Yorgos) Filadelfefs, accompanied by Valentina Vassileva-Filadelfefs on piano.
The main program was presented by the Mavrakis Group, musicians from the island of Lemnos, performing emblematic works from the folk and art repertoire of Theodorakis and Hadjidakis:
- Dimitris Mavrakis – vocals, guitar
- Georgios Mavrakis – vocals, bouzouki
- Georgios Tragaras – bouzouki
- Sotiris Mavrakis – violin
Official Guests and Cultural Significance
Among the official guests was Theodoris Gonis, Greek writer and director, guest of the Sofia International Literary Festival, along with representatives of diplomatic, academic and cultural circles.
The event reaffirmed the role of culture as a lasting bridge between Bulgaria and Greece and became a notable highlight in HBCB’s cultural calendar.
