This episode of “Our Town” is dedicated to Sotiria Bellou.
The great interpreter of Greek folk music was a landmark figure, a beacon of artistic expression and life. With her unique personality, she managed to convey hardships, wounds, and “miracles” alike, as well as the human need to endure everyday life through song.
The show highlights different aspects of the “lady of authenticity,” as she was called—adventurous moments of her tumultuous life, her relationship with music venues, her colleagues, and the many facets of her fascinating and diverse discography.
Her struggles for survival, her uncompromising stance on life, her political battles, and the persecution she faced due to her beliefs are explored in the program, turning her personal story into the story of a people who suffered, fought, and ultimately proved their deep love for music, bringing it to the forefront of daily life and enjoyment.
Sotiria Bellou was a woman who broke the male-dominated mold, both on and off stage. With her guitar slung over her shoulder, she sang “Synnefiasmeni Kyriaki,” “Antilaloun oi Fylakes,” “San Apokliros Gyrizo,” and “M’ Aeroplana kai Vaporia,” songs that, thanks to her interpretations, can truly be called timeless.
Speaking about Sotiria Bellou are: Giorgos Kontogiannis, Giorgos Chronas, Dimitra Myrila, Thomas Korovinis, and Stelios Elliniadis. Excerpts are also read from the book “Sotiria Bellou: Pote Dortia, Pote Exares” by her closest friend, journalist Sofia Adamidou.
Produced and presented by Themis Rodamitis