Playwright Kambanellis dies

One of the most prominent 20th century Greek playwrights, journalist Iakovos Kambanellis, died on Tuesday at the age of 89.

Kambanellis (also spelled Kampanellis) was born on the island of Naxos in 1922 and studied design at a private academy in Athens. He was a survivor of the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp in WWII.

He wrote the script for at least 12 films, two of which he directed, while he collaborated with noted Greek theatrical director Karolos Koun.

His works include "Mauthausen", "Stella", "The Backyard of Miracles", "Our Big Circus", "Neighbourhood of Angels". (ANA-MPA)

Moreover, Kambanellis wrote extensively in local newspapers and magazines, while he also produced theatrical play adaptations on the radio.

The Ministry of Culture expressed profound sadness over Kambanellis' passing, characterising him as one of the leading Greek playwrights of the post-war era.

"He gave new life to the Greek theatre, defining its style, while at the same time influencing international theatre," a Culture Ministry statement reads.

ANA-MPA