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Israeli singer Amir Benayoun and Cypriot vocalist Demetris Souroullas joined the Israeli Andalusian Orchestra in a series of special performances in Cyprus to mark Hanukkah, blending Israeli and Greek musical traditions for a diverse audience.
The two concerts, held in Limassol and Larnaca on December 29 and 30, 2024, brought together Jewish, Israeli, and Cypriot communities in a celebration of music, culture, and unity.
The Ashdod-based orchestra, led by conductor Elad Levi, was invited to Cyprus by local Jewish community leaders to perform at the annual Hanukkah celebrations.
In both cities, the evening’s events began with a traditional Hanukkah candle-lighting ceremony, which was led by the local rabbi.
Following the lighting, the rabbi led a joyful dance with the orchestra and the audience, infusing the performances with a spirit of togetherness and festivity.
Levi expressed how deeply meaningful the event was, especially given the current global political climate.
“It was heartwarming — especially at this time when global public opinion is not so pro-Israel — to see the audience getting into the Hanukkah spirit with us,” he said.
“Dancing with the rabbi of the community during the lighting of the candles — and all this in the heart of the city of Larnaca, without hiding what we were doing.”
The performances were made possible under heightened security, with the local Jewish community providing safety measures for the artists and audience.
Despite the challenges, the shows were a symbol of resilience, reinforcing the power of culture and music to unite people across different backgrounds.
Amir Benayoun, a renowned figure in contemporary Mizrahi music, performed several of his signature hits with the orchestra.
His repertoire included songs such as “Standing in the Gate,” “When You’re Sad,” “Fall Leaves,” “Only You,” “Teacher for Life,” and “I Have a Dream.”
These familiar songs resonated with the Israeli audience, while also offering something new and exciting for the Cypriot crowd.
Cypriot singer Demetris Souroullas, known for his rich vocal style, joined the orchestra to perform classic Greek songs, adding a unique Mediterranean flavor to the concerts.
His collaboration with the Israeli musicians created a dynamic fusion of two cultures, reflecting Cyprus’s diverse identity.
The concert’s final moments were particularly moving, as the orchestra performed both the Cypriot and Israeli national anthems, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between the two nations.
Among the audience were ambassadors from Israel, the United States, Germany, and France, further underscoring the event’s international significance.
For Levi, the experience was a testament to the unifying power of music. “The orchestra’s visit to Cyprus was a rare opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and showcase the beauty of both Israeli and Greek traditions,” he said.
The concert series in Cyprus not only celebrated Hanukkah but also served as a reminder of the shared human connection that transcends borders and political tensions.
As the lights of the Hanukkah candles shone brightly in Limassol and Larnaca, the performances left a lasting impression on all who attended, reminding everyone of the importance of community, celebration, and peace.