Zorba the Greek Yolngu style

Aboriginal interpretation of Zorba the Greek.
Frank Djirrimbilpilwuy from Milingimbi has been in the Indigenous Media Industry for many years and has been a long-standing member and supporter of the Top End Aboriginal Bush Broadcasting Association, TEABBA Radio. He has worked Independently in Music and Film for many years also.
As the man behind the camera and release of the video, Frank is also representing the dance group who call themselves "The Chooky Dancers". Frank has said that he filmed the footage at this years Ramingining Festival on the 30th September 2007 and knew it would be "something special" as soon as he saw the boys rehearsing. "The crowd went wild as you can see in the video, and the classic song Zorba the Greek has now become a hit overnight in the communities and now it seems, everywhere else too" Frank said.
In just one week of being released onto "You Tube" by the staff at TEABBA Media Services, the video has received rave reviews been given a 5 star rating and has now been viewed well over 15,000 times.
"The phones have not stopped ringing at the TEABBA offices, all from people who want to know more about the footage," a TEABBA staff member has said "even the honorable Kon Vatskalis with the Territory Labour party has commented on the video and suggested that they perform at the Greek Glenti next year."
The Chooky Dancers are a group of 10 energetic young men who had healthy living in mind when they choreographed the performance. Franks son Lionel is the lead dancer in the video footage at front and center. "They (the Chooky Dancers) begun working on this just after this years Garma Festival in Gukula and worked very hard on it, they also do a Bollywood style performance which is also fantastic" Frank said. It seems that talent runs in Frank's family, with Franks Daughter also in an all Indigenous Line Dance Group also who Frank actively plays a role in.
The "Zorba" video, which has not yet been given an official title, is just a sample of Franks works "I edited that footage on "imovie" at the TEABBA Media Services video workshop and now have plans to make a documentary about my Yolngu families connections to the Greek culture". Franks feelings towards the Greek culture have been reinforced by his daughter Pricilla, who requires constant care and is currently being cared for by a woman of Greek heritage in Darwin. "Lillian is a selfless woman, who cares for my daughter" Frank said " she takes Priscilla to church, weddings and all kinds of functions within the Greek community and they are all lovely people with strong cultural identity also which Yolngu people can identify to. I want to show through this documentary how 2 cultures can mix and this dance video is a fabulous start", Frank said.
If anyone would like to enquire about Frank's work or "The Chooky Dancers", messages can be left with TEABBA Radio on 89 390 400.
(update). Sadly Frank is no longer with us....
A documentary explaining the story behind the dance is available to purchase from TEABBA Media Services on [phone]. (Australia).
The song was chosen as a tribute to a Greek lady who cared for Frank's disabled daughter. It was a way to say thankyou to her for all she had done.

[@kerry1ization]

In 2024, I still love watching these guys have so much fun with thier talent❤

[@willbacster223]

What about the out rage if Greek kids did a aboriginal dance double standards please remove this hateful post

[@piroskamerk106]

I still like it 😁

[@Job220701]

In my darkest hour, I watched this and learned to smile again….Thank You.

[@webbtherapy]

Over the 14 years, this is still my favorite dance video.

[@Gikka1]

I am australian with greek heritage and seeing this makes me so proud i think it's fantastic. Its a great mix of 2 cultures :)

[@theeditsandcraftingworld]

Same well I’m half Greek but I’m Australian greek background

[@RuthieStruth13]

wow! those boys can dance! talk about natural talent, especially the guy in the centre. i love it it and makes me proud to be an aussie. when i was a kid aboriginal culture was everywhere (im 42 years old) and i thought it was part of me, well i still feel that way and it makes my heart glad to see some aboriginal dancing. does anyone else feel this way?

[@kimon114]

Im Greek, and somewhat of a purist, whatever this might mean. I have thorougly enjoyed these guys. They are ABSOLUTELY marvelous. I'll invite them to my patry anytime of the week and twice on Sunday. Well done mates!!!

[@shayneoneill1506]

Gotta love it when two cultures put their heads together. Always get something new!

[@paulnomikos316]

love this

[@ashleyosborne5500]

kimon114 as the "Dance" goes yes funny af!good to see ppl from different cultures accept ppl from different cultures

[@marypicard108]

Rob Gorman haha except the music!

[@kyleminiter437]

The story is that an aboriginal elder got very sick and the doctor that pretty much saved her and looked after her was Greek that’s why they made this

[@gogogranny59]

I only wish my Greek uncle was still alive, he'd get a real kick outta these guys. He was the one who taught me how to dance Zorba, watching him and his siblings dance was so so mesmerising for an 8 year old.

[@kphilj]

Multicultural Australia - this is a scream! My Yolgnu brothers are too much!!! Love you all!!! All the way from Dubai...

[@GROLDIS]

Saw these guys at the Melbourne Comedy Gala tonight from the front row. They were the highlight of the whole show, absolutely brilliant. Began with traditional dancing with sticks and digeridoo then merged into Zorba. Lots of International comedians there to see them and we should be so proud of them. Go boys, you were fabulous.

[@shayneoneill1506]

Fantastic interpretation of one cultures indigenous tradition by another cultures indigenous traditional dance. Good work Mob, I laughed and Loved it! A great tribute to the Greek by the Yolngu!

[@sonnyhollis5472]

After all these years of watching this.. still can't help be entertained. Can't say it don't make you smile

[@johnnykaretsian8578]

Am Greek part Australian I love ❤️ the show and makes me feel those people they deserve recognition as the first Australians my respect love ❤️ them all 🇬🇷❤️🇬🇷❤️

[@chrisgallagher64]

if I am ever feeling down I pop on the head phones and watch this clip a few times and its like I have taken happy pills. They are fantastic dancers, entertainers and a credit to all Australians

[@Job220701]

Things have been rocky around here lately and tuning into this dance performance has made me laugh for the first time in a year. thank you

[@edwardpootchemunka2061]

These Yolngu Mob too Deadly Greetings from the western side of Cape York peninsula👍🏾👍🏾

[@TimothyJarrett-uq9np]

Much respect brothers...I'm in fits of laughter at your dancing 😂..what beautiful things you do..❤ from England

[@artbacknt5851]

These guys are touring Australia at the moment - now called Djuki Mala. Been getting standing ovations :)

[@diddyfitzgerald9354]

You should see Djuki Mala dance now. I saw them at Penrith last year, the dancing was so slick, professional - and beautiful (a dance solo) and entertaining - a Motown section. Such co-ordination grace, and good humour.

[@TenduYou]

I was blown away by them in Sydney last year as well.

[@SuzzyB52]

I absolutely love the Chooky Dancers. Our First Nation's People are brilliant.

[@blue21aquarious]

Guys, I’m sending you my love from Greece! You are fantastic!

[@Emma1224567899876543]

the dude in the middle (front) is really going at it.

[@larryanderson2783]

He stands out the most to me.

[@geotrisi]

I am a Greek-Australian...living in Athens now ON YA gyus! The main TV Channels here broacasted it! It is so funny! BRAVO again! I am coming back(Sydney) after 8 years, for holidays in 2 months! I hope to see you then! KEEP IT UP! IT MAKES PEOPLE HAPPY! THANK YOU!

[@caralhoguy]

👏👏👏

[@sirsim33]

this is ridiculously funny and with the hard times we have here now , thanks from the bottom of my heart.. Love from Greece

[@colourblind3213]

There is nothing whatsoever racist about it - it should be enjoyed as it's meant to be - just hilarious!

[@bigjuice6402]

Victoria KV the dance was made as a thank you from an indigenous man to a Greek friend

[@bigjuice6402]

Victoria KV so if you used our music and created a dance as a thank you, I’m certain we wouldn’t mind at all

[@OziNasio]

Terry Saunders no mate we love it

[@ocean4lifem8]

totally, whoever started on about cultural appropriation should be quiet.

[@katherinealexandra9115]

I LOVE this. The rhythm and fun is brilliant.

[@earthjenny]

Im crazy about this video, its soooo funny, these guys really know how to dance and have a great time doing it, love to see em live!!!

[@nataliebritton8602]

2021..... it’s STILL DEADLY!! 🥰👌🏽

[@Jimbookie]

The best dancing ive seen in ages .2 types of people Greeks and all the others who want to be Greek yia sou Proude to be a Greek - Australian

[@BobrahamCDavies]

For at least the last year I have been showing people this clip. You guys deserve all the good things you will get. Well done.

[@anncoral]

I love this always gives me smile when I watch it. You go guys..........

[@atalantidionysus4682]

Brilliant!! Saw this performed a few nights ago in Melbourne by Djuki Mala and we all had so much fun! Michael Theodorakis who wrote this tune turned 92 a few days ago. I am sure he would be very proud of his performance. Where ever this song is played it always brings joy and laughter, these boys have absolutely captured that with this performance. Love you guys you are awesome!!!

[@peacefamily212]

Absolutely brilliant guys well done. I watched this video years ago and it's still a classic after all these years. X

[@glendafield9797]

yous fullas always make me feel better! kia ora from Aotearoa

[@lesliestewart2506]

Who said dem black fella don't got humor? Aah piss off bloke!

[@stanstuski9352]

leslie stewart shut up idiot

[@abbigaillong6328]

10 years down the track and still the best nungga noongas from down South👋🏿

[@helenlarson7428]

These guys are super funny and I can watch this again and again. I have a Greek father so it is even more funny!! Brilliant!

[@seylaNZ]

kia ora.. this is DEADLY... talk about talented!! I hope this group showcases this around the world... great humour!! Loved it!

[@chineyginey]

We hope to get some more dancing from the Chooky Dancers. When we do, they will definitely be posted up! Looking forward to it!

[@chineyginey]

I didn't even know they were going to be on the Today Show myself! Spewing I missed it! Apparently they will be going to Greece in 2008 and they will definitely be performing at the Greek Glenti in Darwin as well in 2008.

[@Uruyagua]

If these guys aren't touring Australia they should be. Aboriginal moves to any type of secular music is an instant hit! Good on you guys for giving us a laugh & I hope that you keep enjoying yourselves always like you seem to be doing in this dance!

[@nellocan]

You can tell the fella in the middle front is a natural talent and showman. You can't take your eyes off him. What a wonderful group of entertainers. Luv it to bits!!

[@Dawezzzzzz]

great to see back after many years at 1:12 super moves!

[@latlit2952]

These fullas are too deadly! :)

[@trinaholman4083]

Watched this regularly for 10 years and never get tired of it. Seriously Deadly!

[@IveeDeeVee]

FANTASTIC... HOPE you get to perform in Greece!

[@minyhsk8]

omg they're awesome, i was pausing it most of the time, cuz I'm learning the coreo, =D

[@panos1153]

amazing , Fantastique

[@sportyozy]

This is a class act show & all concerned should be commended for there fine ability & originality. What a treasure, what a find,very catchy. I have watched this countless times now & never get tired of it. Go on tour. High commendations from me for the Choreography. Just marvellous.!!!!

[@resethd7366]

2019 and this still fun to watch. I remember when my cousins and I would copy this dance.

[@isaacwilliams4970]

Makes me laugh so damn hard I Cryed.

[@ariskoustoylidhs5879]

FOR ALL OF YOU TO KNOW THE NAME OF THE DANCE IS SIRTAKI DANCE AND NOT ZORBA ,ZORBA IS THE INTERNATIONA NAME FOR IT CAUSE OF THE PICTURE ZORBA THE GREEK THAT IS ALL

[@LorraineHatrix]

I LOVE you guys so much. I have seen the Chooky dancers, and was so amazed and thoroughly enjoyed the concert so very much. I have watched this dance with you all, like, 0 times.

[@shaudee67]

Watch the guy in the front with the blue shorts on...FABULOUS!!! Two thumbs up for the dancing, guys!! :D

[@uni000ver000sal]

Great stuff when cultures are mixed

[@Jules-nx1nl]

OPA!

[@OsirisIxchel]

This always lifts my heart! It is wonderful and the dancers are marvelous...I love it so.

[@nischaxx]

I love you all guys 🥰 Always my favorite video and make me smile.😘❤❤❤

[@traceroni]

that was ultra super mega spicy

[@joshuasdoa1181]

troo dat boi

[@joshuasdoa1181]

Aboriginal twerking

[@traceroni]

its so good ay m8

[@chineyginey]

passed away recently so have some bloody respect! It seems to me, Beller1, your educated view on indigenous australians is based on watching the nightly news(which is sensationalized). The fact that you can find a racist negative view on something that is positive just shows how uneducated you really are! You need to get out of your armchair and experience the real world and not stereotype people. Sounds to me like you are insecure in your own idea of perfect world! In future, refer to history

[@shedcat]

LOL! These fellas are so talented! They can sure bust some moves for sure. Thanks for sharing! Made me laugh and smile.

[@reniatsandy1834]

I can watch this a thousand times but the middle one just cracks me up with his mood, he knows how to make people entertain

[@chineyginey]

First of all, I would like to know how you came up with such a degrading and racist view of the indigenous society based on watching a 3 minute clip of some young men performing an interpretation of Zorba the Greek. Let me educate you on the story behind the interpretation - this was inspired as a gift to a greek lady who cared for the young disabled sister of the dancer in blue. This was a thankyou to the greek lady as she was held as a special person in the family of the main performer.

[@vasiliosaligiannis161]

That is why we should not judge... I am a teacher of Greek folk dance and am a traditionalist at heart. BUT this is amazing..... I love it when people connect with other cultures through dance!

[@calvinbmx]

Really enjoyed your performance Chooky Dancers. Made me laugh and laughter is the best medicine. Thanks for sharing and keep it up.

[@Brett.Crealy-kh1sk]

I wish i had even half your rhythm.. you fellas are brilliant! 🏆👍

[@beckmckech]

Fabulous! Did anyone else see the major Thriller dance references?? combining 3 into 1.. Very smart!!

[@ShaniaRose]

Still to this day one of my favourite videos

[@Ahtoms]

Went and saw Djuki Mala last night. What a fabulous experience and performance. Hilarious and heart rending. These young men know how to dance- big time. Like this video, but so much better. Talent plus!!!

[@finisher2024]

It's 2021, and I am still watching and enjoying this dance moves.

[@mariamary65]

Deadly ! Fantastic! Bravo xo

[@janinam405]

Just came across this again after seeing it for the first time a decade ago. Now my Son is watching and loving it!

[@bm7491]

Totally BRILLIANT and very enjoyable to watch & watch & watch we need more of this in this world. You have done you culture and people proud. Keep it up & many thanks for a good laugh

[@Job220701]

I watch this every day. Every negative thing fades away .

[@redcolt99]

They are amazing! Never expected to see such a different performance of the "Zorba the Greek". They sure did put a smile on my face :)

[@egonperren]

Grosse Klasse und sehr lustig freue mich auf den naechsten Tanz,beste Zorba den ich bis jetzt gesehen habe.

[@mrtrik71]

Much love to the brothers and sisters from a Greek

[@kittymum2]

awsome!...the great thing is this dance keeps the essence of the movie....I think so...

[@ellebee2593]

Look for the Laura festival usually in July/August, There are plenty of traditional dancers and music. It is usually on every year in North Queensland Australia.

[@susigorges7035]

❤I Love this….makes me happy…every time❤

[@erniethecanary]

I'm not surprised such talent comes from Elcho Island. It's an amazing place with amazing culture. Loved this dance! I want to see more!

[@AleksandraBlack-in7er]

Love the movie ... Dance is, art, in more ways than one 😎🍷

[@HellasHaggis]

Well done! Definitely enjoyed seeing it, and I am Greek and my real name IS ZORBA too! Thanks for sharing and to Pam for sending this link to me to see.

[@hardlinemedia]

this is wicked.... well done guys.... Brought a huge smile to my face & all that I showed...

[@RedneckCasanova]

Terrific! That chest/ribcage-heaving move towards the end was startling and totally cool! The guy in the middle has moves that'd make Mick Jagger think twice about following THESE guys on stage!

[@crazy-john]

The guy in the middl3 with blue shorts must be the choreographer on the whole dance. This video made smile ear👂to ear 👂thank you for sharing guys.

[@jackdanblake]

Oh yeah... did I mention the outstanding choreography? You guys are on a rocket ship to fame... HOLD ON TIGHT!!!

[@LBcoment]

So funny. Keep dancing like that. I'm a fan from Portugal :-)

[@royzee28]

Brilliant , Great timing and just what everyone needs to cheer them up in these very trying times! Loved it, thank you to both performers and poster!

[@dustyrah]

absolutely fabulous performance and if jarnabubbles is right then it was done in a wonderful spirit of giving and community. deadly!

[@geckoesncrows]

So many years later, and I still can't stop laughing whenever I watch this again, & again.

[@jpapanik]

Wow!!! More please! I absolutely love this interpretation. This is incredible. Their culture is amazing and I’m very proud that they chose to cover this

[@bikeybiker]

I will never tire of watching this. Brilliantly done and so much fun

[@ColFingers]

Probably the coolest dance routine I've seen for a long time. A ballburster.

[@woodzanator]

these boyz are awesume cant help but enjoy everything about it

[@Normkangaroo]

Saw this on the ABC News tonight and just had to have another look at it. Brilliant!!!! Genius!!!!! Please do some more and post them.

[@gailhokin4571]

Yeh hi i am not greek but hey i love zorba the greek these guys yoingu style are unbelievable would love to see them in the club circuit es club taree great music and great entertainment you go guys

[@PattyBeecham]

I loved watching this, the middle dancer is brilliant, I coulnd't keep my eyes off him, well done. Isn't it great that we can all share in the tradition of dance and music together.

[@onion47]

Great work guys ... we had fun at Cherbourg in Queensland when the Police Bagpipe Band came to town and some of the Indigenous Teachers showed an Aboriginal version of the Highland Fling. That was amazing.

[@zinnington]

Such enthusiasm with a great sense of humor. Terrific just terrific. Good to see some people can still have a good time with life. Good luck

[@fantasyrules01]

truly bloody awesome makes me proud to even be part aboriginal im quarter cast and lovin it

[@rhinobarrows]

Loved it I may try to dance this dance but don't see myself doing well. I'll be praying for a cure for Mens' sister and the Greek Woman who looks after her. God Bless.

[@amandareina]

this is so cool! awesome dancers from the inside out andsuch good humour able to make good humour about the places where the old and the new meet in the rhythm of the soul and the body and the smile