Zorba The Greek Director, Michael Cacoyannis Dies at Age 90

Michael Cacoyannis, the Greek-Cypriot director, producer and writer of the film classic Zorba The Greek based on Nikos Kazantzakis tale filmed in Crete, died on July 25, 2011 at the age of 90. In recognition of Cacoyannis' contribution to culture in Greece, he was given a state funeral in Athens on July 28th.

Known as Ίδρυμα Μιχάλης Κακογιάννης, Cacoyannis has left a wonderful legacy in his Michael Cacoyannis Foundation (the MCF website in Greek, and in English) which is based in Tavros, Athens.

Cacoyannis set up the non-profit making foundation in 2003. His ambition was the creation of a modern cultural institution with its own distinctive identity, which would engage in the study, support and promotion of the Performing Arts, particularly Theatre and Cinema.

Catch the movie's classic 'Sirtaki' dance scene on the beach here.

Zorba is a continuing firm favourite with British audiences representing the epitome of all things Greek.

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