Theatre and arts communities across Cyprus are mourning the loss of one of their most cherished figures. Spyros Stavrinides, the iconic Cypriot actor, passed away on the morning of 13 April 2025 at the age of 79, according to a statement by the Cyprus Actors’ Union.
Born in Nicosia in 1946, Stavrinides was a towering presence in Cypriot theatre for over five decades. A graduate of the Evi Gavrielides Drama School and later the Karolos Koun Art Theatre School in Athens, he began his career in Greece before returning to Cyprus to help shape the country’s theatrical identity. He also studied acting in London, where his formative experiences would deeply influence his artistic approach.
His early work included collaborations with RIK Theatre (1969–1971), followed by a lifelong association with the Cyprus Theatre Organisation (THOC), where he became a cornerstone of the institution from 1972 onward, officially taking on a leading role in 1990. Throughout his career, he brought to life a vast array of roles from Cypriot, Greek, and international repertoires—both classical and contemporary. Notable performances included Medea, Oedipus Rex, and Buried Child, among countless others.
In film, he was awarded the State Prize for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Eternal Student (2001), while in 2021, he was honoured with THOC’s Grand Prize in recognition of his 50-year contribution to Cypriot theatre.
Spyros Stavrinides was not only a consummate actor but also a director, theatre scholar, and teacher, shaping generations of young artists. He brought the same quiet dignity, depth, and authenticity to his work on television and in cinema, becoming a much-loved figure across the entire spectrum of performing arts in Cyprus.
His humility, deep cultural knowledge, and unwavering commitment to his craft earned him the admiration of colleagues and audiences alike. As the Deputy Ministry of Culture stated in its announcement:
“Spyros Stavrinides was a model of integrity, modesty, and devotion to the arts. His cultural legacy is invaluable, and his loss is deeply felt by all who loved and collaborated with him.”
President Nikos Christodoulides also expressed condolences, describing Stavrinides’ passing as a major loss for Cypriot theatre and the arts more broadly.
“He was a leading figure of the old guard of Cypriot theatre, who served the stage with dedication and humility for five decades. His powerful presence on stage will keep his memory alive and serve as a source of inspiration for future generations.”
The Cyprus Actors’ Union also paid tribute, stating:
“With deep sorrow, we bid farewell to our beloved colleague and friend. Spyros was an emblematic figure of Cypriot theatre, whose dedication, sensitivity, and boundless energy left an indelible mark on countless productions. His humanity and ethical spirit will remain a model for us all.”
One of his most memorable performances was in Euripides The Suppliants (Iketides), where his own wartime experience profoundly shaped his portrayal of the Messenger. Reflecting on the role, he once said:
“War changes you. The wounds were still fresh when we staged The Suppliants. When I enlisted, they had me guarding a hospital. I saw strange things there—soldiers dropping off the wounded, then abandoning their weapons and leaving. The corridors were filled with guns. Many had realised the betrayal and saw no point in dying needlessly.
I remember six or seven men lying outside a hospital building, recounting their war experiences. One man, from Kyrenia, described walking through Bellapais and seeing corpses scattered everywhere. He spoke mechanically, with a blank stare and a trance-like state. These men were broken, their words came out with difficulty. I had them in mind when I worked on the role. I didn’t stride onto the stage to glorify battle—I entered as someone crushed by war, fully aware that there are no winners or losers, only the dead.
We drew heavily on our personal experiences in that production. That’s why the result was so powerful. Its impact lasted for decades.”
Spyros Stavrinides leaves behind a legacy of artistic excellence, quiet leadership, and profound cultural impact. His funeral will be held at public expense, a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to the soul of Cypriot theatre and art.
Farewell, dear Spyros. Your legacy will forever live in our hearts and on the stage you so deeply loved.
