Michael Cacoyannis has distinguished himself not only as an international filmmaker, but also as a stage and opera director, with critically acclaimed productions in Greece, the U.S., France and other European countries. He has published several screenplays and he has translated Shakespeare’s plays into Greek and Euripides into English. Also he has written the lyrics of some of the best-known and best-loved Greek songs.
Born in Cyprus, Michael Cacoyannis studied law in London and was called to the Bar (Barrister-at-law) in 1943. While working for the BBC's Greek service, first as a news announcer and then as a producer of cultural programs, he also studied acting at the Central School of Dramatic Art in London and directing at the Old Vic School.
Not long after his debut as an actor in 1947, he decided to concentrate instead on directing. In 1952 he left London to settle in Athens and one year later the success of his first film Windfall in Athens marked the beginning of an international career in directing. Among them Stella, A Girl in Black, A Matter of Dignity, Zorba the Greek and the trilogy of Electra, The Trojan Women, Iphigenia. His films were regurarly screened at the most prestigious International film festivals, receiving awards and distinctions. Michael Cacoyannis has worked with some of the best and most distinguished actors of his time, in Greece, Europe and Hollywood.
In 2004, Michael Cacoyannis established a charitable foundation in his name, whose aim is to support , preserve and promote the arts of Theatre and Cinema.
Michael Cacoyannis has been awarded for his overall contributions to Arts by many festivals and universities as well as the Order of the Golden Phoenix (Greece), the Commandeur des Arts et des Lettres (France), the Grand Cross / Order of Makarios 3rd (Cyprus) and the Special Grand Prix of the Americas (Montreal) among them.
It was Michael Cacoyannis` initiative that led to the dramatic new illumination of the Acropolis of Athens.
