By Georgia Vavas

Constantine Maroulis, the American Idol finalist, Star of the Broadway hit “Rock of Ages” and best actor Tony nominee, featured at the Commencement Ceremony of the Festival. After a few periods of a downpour, which made everyone duck for cover under the tent, Constantine finally appeared with his guitarist Tommy, and his brother Athan, who is also an accomplished vocalist and producer. The loyal teeny bopper fans weathered it out with umbrellas because they were not about to give up their front row seats. Constantine was magnificent and well worth the wait. He did not disappoint his fans. His performance was classic Maroulis—entertaining and charming. He started off strong with “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” to the delight of his screaming fans. He stayed until midnight autographing his cd’s and various items and gladly posed for pictures with his fans and their parents. At one point, he invited a young lady to come on stage and while he serenaded her, she surprised him with a bouquet of flowers that she had hidden behind her back.

The next three days proved to be just as successful as the first. Sunny skies, aromas of Greek food and pastries, dancing ensembles from neighboring Greek churches in Baltimore, extensive display of religious and cultural exhibits and live Greek music by Apollonia Band, greeted the guests as they arrived. People of all ages, including toddlers, and other ethnic backgrounds “literally” danced in the streets.

Congratulations to Festival chairperson Frank Mitsos, co-chairpersons, Georgia Fotopoulos, Sophia Gerapetritis, Tina Harris & Stanley Souranis, Father Michael Pastrikos and the whole Saint Nicholas Parish for a most successful festival.