Interview with Gemetzis, Anna

Anna Gemetzis, born in Alupka, Crimea recalls the small town where she spent her first 11 years; her family becoming refugees to Athens, Greece; Greek musical instruments, lyra and daoul; her marriage in 1944 during the German occupation, her husband being a refugee from Russia; family migration to Australia (her husband in 1959, she in 1962); the family's early years in Melbourne, Vic., the economic and social circumstances new migrants faced; Greek religious customs and celebrations they still observe; Greek lullabies, stories and tales told to children; stories about the evil eye ritual; folk medicines; the role and contributions of Greek women to Greek and Australian societies; traditional crafts; Greek music and television programs; Pontian dialect theatrical plays; future of Greek traditions and language; importance of Greek schools.

A heartwarming interview Anna Gemetzis by Demetra Enizlis in 1998.  Anna Gemetzis was born to Russia where she lived until she was 11 years old - when her mother passed away from a flu. Her father was of Greek Pontic background and worked as a teacher. Her grandparents on her father's side were born in the Asia Minor.