STARC contributes to the opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture – Pafos 2017
STARC has contributed 3D models and 3D reconstructions such as the Hellenistic-Roman theatre of Pafos and various statues from Cyprus in order to be map projected on the walls of the municipality of Pafos where the opening ceremony took place. The 3D models were used during the “Pygmalion’s Dream” part of the play. The opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture – Pafos 2017 showcased the history, the multiculturalism and the modern culture of Pafos as an integral part of the wider European culture. The ceremony was designed and produced by a Creative Team of Cypriot artists and intellectuals, working with Walk the Plank. Inspired by the myth of Pafos, it has at its heart the founding myth of Pygmalion, the Artist and his creation, Galatea. The celebratory performance seeked to portray the core concepts of the Open Air Factory, such as creativity, originality, artistic excellence, and also multiculturalism, diversity, as well as the hope for a unified country. Young people, children and volunteers from all over Cyprus joined professional cast from all over the island. As Pygmalion invokes the spirit of Aphrodite to breathe life into the statue he has carved, light and fire will illuminate the sky above our newly restored city centre. Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot musicians and singers sang in unison with a Danish choir and the Jazz Orchestra from Aarhus, our partner Capital of Culture Original compositions, as well as adaptations of music, choreographies and projections brought to life by actors, dancers and hundreds of children who illuminate the moment of Pafos’ birth and mark the opening of the European Capital of Culture – Pafos2017.
Artistic Direction: Liz PughCreative Producer: John WassellText composition / dramatisation: Efi KyprianidouDirection: Neoklis NeokleousMusic composition via Opening Ceremony Programme of Events – Pafos2017.