Rizes and Rythmos Dance Ministry
Metropolis of New Jersey Music and Dance Festival, February 13-15, 2026
Last weekend, our Annunciation Elkins Park Youth poured their hearts onto the stage at the 2nd Annual Metropolis of New Jersey Music & Dance Festival in Philadelphia, and they made us incredibly proud as the largest participant in our Metropolis.
They danced with faith. They danced with joy. They danced, carrying our traditions in their hearts.
With deep gratitude, we thank His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of New Jersey for his vision in creating this extraordinary festival for our Metropolis, an event where our youth can come together to celebrate faith, culture, fellowship, and service in such a meaningful way.
To our dedicated instructors, Afrodite Patounas and Debbie Sourias, thank you for the countless hours, patience, encouragement, and love you pour into these children. The light they shine on stage reflects everything you give.
And to our parents, thank you for your trust, sacrifices, and for raising children who carry our traditions forward so beautifully.
Congratulations to every single participant! You are the heart of our parish.
Annunciation, Elkins Park, 2026 MDF Awards
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KYMATAKIA (JOY), PLATINUM in Greek Folk Dance. Folk Expression Award.
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MERAKLIDES (GOYA), BRONZE in Greek Folk Dance
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GOYA GIRLS, GOLD in Liturgical Choir.
*Special Thank you to our Annunciation Donors*
Archangel Sponsors
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Parish Council
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Drs Anthony & Maria Limberakis, in honor of our Children and Grandchildren
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The Nikolopoulos Family
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The Papadeas Family
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The Frangakis & Redemann Families
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Peter & Susan Gouris & Family
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Ladies Philoptochos Society 'Nausica'
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Annunciation PTO
Guardian Sponsor
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Kyriaki Tsiadis Fragogiannis
Greetings Annunciation Families,
On behalf of Father John, we warmly welcome you to our parish’s Greek Folk Dance Ministry: Rizes and Rythmos!
This ministry is dedicated to preserving and teaching the authentic folk dances of Greece, emphasizing traditional styles unique to each region. Instead of relying on modern or overly choreographed styles, we aim to learn the dances as they were originally performed—grounded in the daily lives, customs (ethima), and celebrations of each community.
Along with dance, we’ll also explore the history, stories, and songs that bring each region’s traditions to life.
Our Theme: Rizes (Roots)
Our ministry is guided by the words of Greek poet Giorgos Seferis:
"Ένας άνθρωπος χωρίς ρίζες είναι σαν δέντρο που το ξερίζωσαν- μπορεί να ζήσει, αλλά δεν θα ανθίσει.” “A person without roots is like a tree that has been uprooted; they may live, but they will not flourish.”
We dance with intention—rooted in our heritage, led by faith, and tied to our roots.
Dance Groups, Practice Schedules, and Instructors
- HOPE/Vimatakia (K – 2nd grade): Tuesdays from 7:00 to 7:30 PM, starting September 30, with Debbie Papadeas
- JOY/Kymatakia (3rd – 6th grade): Fridays from 6:30 to 7:30 PM, starting September 19, with Debbie Sourias
- GOYA/Meraklides (7th – 12th grade): Fridays from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, starting September 5, with Effie Patounas
Note: Dancers participating in MDF will begin a second weekly practice starting in October.
We are excited, eager, and blessed to guide you, support you, and dance alongside you as we begin this beautiful journey together!
In Christ,
Effie Patounas, Debbie Sourias, and Debbie Papadeas
MISSION
The Rizes (roots) and Rythmos (rhythm) Dance Ministry unites young people through traditional Greek dance and folk music, encouraging faith, cultural pride, and community. By celebrating our Hellenic heritage and Orthodox Christian identity, we aim to deepen appreciation for our roots and foster meaningful connections within the Church.
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live your culture
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celebrate your faith
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honor your heritage
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connect to your roots
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make friends
WHO WE ARE
Our folk dance groups proudly represent our Annunciation community at a variety of events throughout the year:
- Music and Dance Festival
- OPA! Greek Festival
- Annual Feast Day Dinner Dance
- Annual Greek Independence Day Parade
- Greek Festivals throughout the Metropolis
Our dancers are ambassadors of faith, culture, and community wherever we go!
JOIN THE DANCE!
- All youth grades 3rd through 12th are welcome- no experience required!
- Weekly rehearsals, workshops, and fun group activities.
- Learn dances from all regions of Greece, plus the stories and traditions behind them.
- Make lifelong friends and unforgettable memories.
Meraklides [me-rah-kli-des]
(n.) a dance group that does everything with soul, love, and creativity. Meraklides pour passion and heart into every performance!
Kymatakia [ki-ma-ta-kia]
(n.) like the flow of small waves, a dance group that is vibrant and energetic, creating ripples of excitement!
DANCE PROGRAM OVERVIEW AND PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES HERE >
'25-'26 Youth Ministries Registration >
More pictures and videos of our Dance Groups here: Parish Life in Pictures
CONTACT
