St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral
2815 36th St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Dr. Christos Papakostas is a Lecturer in the Department of Physical Education & Sport Science & Kapodistrian of University of Athens in the subject of “Traditional Greek Dances.” He graduated from the Department of Physical Education & Sport Science in Democritus University of Thrace (Komotini) and completed his doctoral dissertation, entitle “Dance / Music Identity and Difference: the case of Roma of Iraklia Serres,” in the Department of History, Archaeology and Social Anthropology, University of Thessaly.

Christos has worked as Temporary Lecturer or Assistant Professor at various Universities in Greece and has published several articles in scientific journals in Greece and abroad. He is a professional instructor of Greek traditional dances and has worked in many dance clubs: Lykion ton Ellinidon Komotini (Thrace), Rhodope Xylagani Cultural Group (Thrace), Dance Group Palama Karditsa “Karagounides” (Thessaly), Lykion ton Ellinidon Drama (Macedonia), Center of Historical and Folklore Research Karditsa “Apollo” (Thessaly), Myrini Cultural Group Karditsa (Thessaly), Perama Ioannina Cultural Association “The Cave” (Epiros). He also Teaches Greek dancing at workshops, seminars and conferences in Greece and abroad (France, England, Belgium, USA and Canada). He has worked as a teacher in traditional percussion in the Public High Schools of Music in Drama, Karditsa, Trikala and Ioannina. He is member in various traditional/folk music groups.

Based in the Greater Metropolitan DC area and affiliated with the St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Falls Church, VA, Byzantio teaches its participants the art and history of Greek folk dance, song, music, and costume as well as prepare them for opportunities to share and perform to the local community and beyond.