Sotiria Leonardou, a celebrated Greek vocalist and thespian, burst into the world on June 28, 1951, within the vibrant city of Athens.
Leonardou's insatiable thirst for knowledge and experience served as the catalyst for her pursuit of additional training under the renowned tutelage of Jerzy Grotowski in the picturesque region of Southern Italy. As she continued to expand her horizons, she embarked on a fascinating journey to India, where she immersed herself in the ancient art of Katakali Indian theater, gaining valuable insights and skills that would later shape her artistic expression.
Meanwhile, her quest for knowledge took her to the vibrant continent of Africa, where she spent four formative years residing in South Africa. It was during this period that she delved into the captivating world of "African ritual magic in theater", uncovering the secrets and techniques that would later influence her creative endeavors.
Throughout the course of her illustrious career, Maria Leonardou had the privilege of collaborating with a plethora of renowned artists, including the esteemed orchestra of the legendary Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, whose musical genius and innovative spirit undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of music.
She also had the opportunity to contribute to the creative endeavors of the celebrated Greek musician Nikolas Asimos, whose innovative and avant-garde style continues to captivate audiences to this day. Her involvement in his projects, specifically his iconic tapes "Illegal tape No. 000008" and "The lantern of Diogenes", showcased her remarkable versatility and adaptability as a performer, as well as her unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Leonardou's remarkable career trajectory reached new heights with her involvement in the critically acclaimed film "Rebetiko", masterfully crafted by the visionary director Costas Ferris. Not only did she deliver a captivating on-screen performance, but she also made a significant creative contribution by co-writing the script, showcasing her impressive range as a multi-talented artist.
In addition to her work on "Rebetiko", Leonardou also appeared in Pantelis Voulgaris' film "Acropol", further solidifying her status as a talented and versatile actress. Moreover, she demonstrated her impressive writing skills by serving as the screenwriter for the film "An African Tale", a testament to her dedication to her craft.
Furthermore, Leonardou's entrepreneurial spirit led her to found the innovative theater stage "Cyber Scene", providing a platform for like-minded artists to showcase their talents and push the boundaries of the performing arts. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her vision, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her passion for the arts.
As the years went by, Leonardou's life was marked by a relentless struggle against a peculiar and debilitating affliction, one that forced her to spend extended periods of time confined to her bed, her once-vibrant spirit gradually worn down by the relentless demands of her illness.
