Dora Stratou, Greek dancer and choreographer (b. 1903)

Dora Stratou, born Dorothea Stratou (Greek: Δωροθέα (Δόρα) Στράτου; 1903–1988), stands as a monumental figure in the preservation and promotion of Greece's rich cultural heritage, particularly in the realms of Greek Folk Dancing and Greek Folk Music. Her enduring legacy is rooted in her pioneering efforts to document and share the intricate tapestry of Greek traditional arts with the world.

One of Stratou's most remarkable achievements was the release of an extensive series of folk music, comprising an astounding 50 records. This monumental collection is recognized globally as one of the largest and most comprehensive anthologies of traditional music ever assembled, providing an invaluable auditory archive of Greece's diverse regional sounds and rhythms. Beyond her recording endeavors, she is revered as the visionary founder of the Greek Dances-Dora Stratou Society, an institution that has become synonymous with the authentic portrayal of Greek traditional dances.

Born into the prominent upper-class urban environment of Athens at the dawn of the twentieth century, Dora Stratou's upbringing by her parents, Maria Koromila and Nikolaos Stratos, alongside her brother Andreas Stratos, afforded her a unique vantage point and access to resources. This sophisticated background, while distinct from the rural settings where many traditions flourished, paradoxically fueled her profound dedication to the authentic expression of Greek folk culture.

Her commitment to scholarship and preservation culminated in the publication of her seminal work, Greek Traditional Dances, in 1979. Printed by the Greek Educational Books Organisation in Athens, this book serves as a vital resource for understanding the historical context and intricate movements of Greek folk dances. Stratou's research was not conducted in isolation; she collaborated extensively with leading ethnomusicologists of her time, notably including the eminent Simon Karras. Karras, a renowned Greek musicologist, was a fervent collector and researcher of Greek traditional music, and their partnership undoubtedly enriched the depth and authenticity of Stratou's work. Through meticulous dedication, she tirelessly maintained a comprehensive record of traditions, which involved recording thousands of hours of music, filming countless dancers in their native environments, and conducting extensive interviews with villagers. These interviews captured invaluable ethnographic details on dance topics, the significance and craftsmanship of traditional costumes, local folklore, and broader cultural practices, ensuring that this intangible heritage was not lost to time.

The profound passion that ignited Dora Stratou's pioneering work is beautifully encapsulated in the opening lines of her book: "I write what my eyes have seen, what went through my mind and what my soul fell in love with..." This personal declaration underscores the deep emotional connection that drove her to establish what is today recognized as one of the most unusual and significant living museums globally: The Greek Dances Theatre in Athens. Established in 1953, this unique theatre group is dedicated to performing the regional dances of Greece precisely as they were executed centuries ago. A cornerstone of its authenticity is the unwavering commitment to costuming; the dancers proudly wear the painstakingly preserved and meticulously recreated authentic costumes of yesteryear, often original pieces or exact reproductions, reflecting the specific traditions of each region and era. This dedication to historical accuracy in both movement and attire makes the Greek Dances Theatre an unparalleled cultural institution, truly a living museum that brings the past vibrantly into the present.

Today, the Greek Dances Theatre continues its vital role not only as a stage for its resident troupe but also as a welcoming host for other folkloric groups, both from within Greece and from international communities. Furthermore, its significance extends to the global stage, as the President's office of the International Dance Council CID UNESCO is officially operated from the main offices of the Dora Stratou Theatre, conveniently located in the historic district of Plaka in Athens. This affiliation highlights the theatre's internationally recognized contribution to the world of dance and cultural preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dora Stratou and the Greek Dances Theatre

Who was Dora Stratou?

Dora Stratou (1903–1988) was a pioneering Greek ethnomusicologist, researcher, and cultural preservationist. She is celebrated for her profound contributions to Greek Folk Dancing and Greek Folk Music, particularly through her extensive recordings and the establishment of the renowned Greek Dances-Dora Stratou Society and Theatre.

What is the significance of her 50 record series?

Dora Stratou issued one of the largest series of folk music recordings in the world, consisting of 50 records. This collection is a monumental achievement in ethnomusicology, preserving an vast auditory archive of traditional Greek music and dance for future generations and researchers.

When was the Greek Dances Theatre founded?

The Greek Dances Theatre, established by Dora Stratou, was founded in 1953 in Athens. It serves as a unique living museum dedicated to the authentic performance and preservation of Greek traditional dances.

Why is the Greek Dances Theatre considered a "living museum"?

It is considered a living museum because its dance troupe performs regional Greek dances exactly as they were traditionally done centuries ago, using authentic costumes that are either original or meticulously recreated. This dedication to historical accuracy in performance, music, and attire allows audiences to experience Greek cultural heritage as it once was, making it a dynamic and unique preservation effort.

What is the connection between the Dora Stratou Theatre and UNESCO?

The main offices of the Dora Stratou Theatre in Plaka, Athens, house the President's office of the International Dance Council (CID) UNESCO. This connection underscores the theatre's international recognition and its significant role in global dance and cultural heritage preservation efforts.