Nikorestis Haniotakis talks about the production “Nikos Xylouris – The Archangel of Crete, ” a musical theater production that highlights the life, art, and inspiring journey of the great Cretan artist.
In his interview, the director explains his vision for the production, emphasizing the significance of the play as “a production from the heart,” which had been tucked away in the creators’ “treasure chest” for years and is now being presented to the public with the aim of bringing Nikos Xylouris’s memories and life experiences to life.
The creation of the performance was based on many years of research, interviews, archival material, and articles, with an emphasis on the authenticity and truth of the events, always combined with the artistic license required by theater. A decisive contribution came from Psaronikos’s closest associates, such as Ourania Xylouri and her daughter Sirini, who ensured that the production reflects the essence and spirit of the artist.
Nikorestis Haniotakis talks about the importance of teamwork: Every member of the production team—from the actors to the technicians and producers—contributed with passion and love to ensure that the performance achieved the completeness it deserves. He also explains how the performance is not limited to simply recreating Xylouris’s voice, but rather highlights the soul of Crete and Greece, the cultural heritage, and the emotions associated with his music.
The performance becomes a lively dialogue with the audience, a bridge of memory and emotion that brings people together, just as Nikos Xylouris himself believed: “We sing to bring the world together.”
