"Our Mikis has gone": 'Zorba the Greek' composer Theodorakis dies at 96

FILE PHOTO: Composer of the "Zorba the Greek", Mikis Theodorakis, gives an interview to Reuters on his balcony across from the Acropolis in Athens October 18, 1989. Theodorakis has switched his allegiance from communists to Conservatives. REUTERS/Yannis Behrakis/File Photo

ATHENS (Reuters) -Composer Mikis Theodorakis, whose infectious, earthy score for the film "“Zorba the Greek" helped foster a sunny, carefree image of his country for millions of tourists, died on Thursday, aged 96.

As news of his passing swept through the nation, parliament held a moment of silence.