Prometheus of Panayoti Karousos in New York

On Sunday, March 30th, 2008 at 6:00PM, the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York, Inc. presented "Prometheus," the epic masterpiece of Greek-Canadian neo-classical composer Panayoti Karousos, whose previous presentations during Greek Independence Week had impressed and inspired audiences. The Astoria Symphony, under the direction of Grant Gilman, performed the complex opera to an enthralled crowd.The event begun with Mr. Karousos' world premiere of the bouzouki concerto performed by soloist James Moore.Then followed the opera "Prometheus", one of the composer's most dramatic and lyrical pieces, which is based on Aeschylus' ancient Greek Tragedy "Prometheus Bound". Soloists, Nathan Baer, Abby Powell, Martin Fisher and Mary Mackenzie wowed the crowd with their powerful interpretations of this neo-classical masterpiece with it's highly symbolic and spiritual messages.The story of Prometheus carries great depth of meaning; for one, his punishment for stealing the Fire of Knowledge from the gods for human kind has relevance with today's Olympic Games as the symbolic torch passing of peace and culture from Greece (Hellas) to all peoples of the world.This extraordinary event took place at the Stathakion Center Astoria New York and it was presented in celebration of Greek Independence Day and the Parade to take place on April 6, 2008 on Manhattan's Fifth Avenue.
Thomas S. Saras Editor in Chief
Patrides North American Review Monday, April 28, 2008 www.patrides.com