This article is part of our series, The People of Leros, where we highlight individuals either from the island or who have chosen Leros as a special home. Each person stands out through their unique story, passions, and the meaningful ways they enrich the community.
Lefteris Diamantaras’ story is not only about acting. It is about belonging, about continuity, and about the quiet dedication required to keep culture alive on a small island. Born in Kalymnos and raised on Leros, he balances his professional life in finance and accounting with a lifelong commitment to theater. Since his first appearance on stage in 1996, he has remained an active and devoted member of the Leros Theater Group, helping shape it into a living, breathing part of the island’s cultural life. Through him, we see how theater, community, and place intertwine, forming both personal identity and collective expression.
Lefteris, tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Kalymnos on September 16, 1978, and grew up in Leros. I work in the private sector in finance and accounting. In my free time, I enjoy reading, taking walks around the island, and watching movies.
How did your interest in theater begin? Was there a particular event or person who inspired you?
I’ve loved watching performances since I was a child. I was always fascinated by the way a story could unfold live in front of my eyes, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. My own journey in theater began in 1996, when I was a senior in high school. I participated in Euripides’ Iphigenia in Tauris, guided by the philologist Mr. Manousos Gryllakis. That experience was my first real glimpse into how a performance is created step by step: the script, characters, music, choreography, sets, costumes, lighting, rehearsals, and timing.
What excites you most about being part of Leros Theater Group?
There’s so much that excites me, but above all, it’s the sense of togetherness, the group itself and the people in it. They are so alike, yet so different at the same time. I love creating images and emotions through plays from both Greek and international repertoire. I enjoy the continuous learning, workshops, and seminars, as well as the collaborations, gatherings, laughter, care, and trips we share.
"I believe that simply living consciously on an island like Leros shapes you deeply. It encompasses everything; from daily life to its culture."
What factors, positive or negative, affect the development of theater in Leros?
Our island truly needs an open-air theater; a space to host theatrical, musical, and dance performances during the summer, which would broaden everyone’s horizons. Leros already has remarkable Cultural Associations that have been active for many years. What we need is a space where rehearsals and performances can be held comfortably, for both artists and audiences. It would also allow visiting performances from outside the island and create opportunities for festivals and cultural events. We’ve been hearing about the possibility of such a theater for years; I hope it becomes a reality.
Tell us about the children’s and youth theater groups in Leros and their participation in theater. What do they gain from the experience?
They are our pride and joy! We are all very proud of our children’s stage and the newly established youth stage, now in its second year. Since 2007, the children’s stage has been active again, and through improvisation, theater exercises, and performing plays, children get to experience theater from the inside. The youth stage allows participants to meet, reflect, express themselves, take risks, and create through theater.
The benefits of participating in theater are enormous. It fosters creativity and imagination, builds self-esteem and confidence, helps with focus and discipline, encourages physical expression and movement, develops empathy, strengthens communication skills, and connects young people with the arts and culture.
What is your vision for the future of the theater group?
As we approach forty years of activity, now entering our 37th year, I hope the group will continue to entertain and provoke thought through the themes of the plays it presents, not only for the people of Leros, but for a wider audience. Life is not only joy and laughter; it also includes sorrow and challenges. Theater reflects both, often showing possible paths. Watching a character suffer and act on stage allows us to recognize something of ourselves, find something in common.
Our theater group remains open to everyone, a living part of Leros’ community. I wish for its members to stay active and pursue beauty in all its forms, and for our “nursery”- the children’s and youth stages – to continue flourishing.
"Life is not only joy and laughter; it also includes sorrow and challenges. Theater reflects both, often showing possible paths. Watching a character suffer and act on stage allows us to recognize something of ourselves, find something in common."
Now about Leros, what do you love most about life on the island?
The colors of the sky and earth throughout the seasons. The unique rhythm of the island, reflected in its people.
Is there a particular memory or experience that defines your connection to Leros?
I believe that simply living consciously on an island like Leros shapes you deeply. It encompasses everything – from daily life to its culture.
Is there a place in Leros that you love especially, and why?
I have a special fondness for the small forest along the road to Katsouni (just before the chapel of Saint Efstathios). Walking through it clears my mind, calms my thoughts, and gives me strength.
When you think of Leros, what images or feelings come to mind first?
People gazing at the sea, storytelling, monuments, the sunset at Gourna, and the sunrise at Vromolithos.
Lefteris reminds us that theater on Leros is not simply performance. It is connection, reflection, and shared experience. Through rehearsals, workshops, youth groups, and countless evenings under the stage lights, the Leros Theater Group continues to nurture creativity and thought across generations. As it moves toward four decades of activity, its strength remains rooted in people like him, steady, generous, and committed to beauty in all its forms.
We warmly thank Lefteris Diamantaras for his sincerity, his dedication, and for the enduring energy he offers to the cultural life of our island.
