The dance troupes “Shevitsa,” based in Essen, Germany, and “Mila Rodina” from Krefeld, Germany, are set to perform jointly at the 11th Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance festival. The collaboration, branded “Shevitsi from Mila Rodina,” marks the first joint appearance for the two ensembles. According to the leaders, the partnership is motivated by a shared commitment to preserving and promoting Bulgarian culture internationally.
The groups will present a performance of “Shopska Zakachka” (“Shopi tease”), a piece choreographed by Iliya Petkov. This dance draws inspiration from traditional movements within the Shopluk folklore region, aiming to recreate the lively and playful atmosphere characteristic of Bulgarian village gatherings. The performance will feature 22 dancers, representing a wide age range from 14 to over 60.
Many of the participants have roots or were raised in Germany while maintaining a strong connection to their Bulgarian heritage. Preparation for this event has involved intensive, weekly rehearsals, alongside the meticulous creation of costumes and accessories. The festival itself serves as a gathering point for amateur Bulgarian folklore ensembles from around the world.
Since its inception in 2015, the event has been hosted in various European cities, providing a platform for cultural exchange through dance. The combined efforts of these established groups highlight the dedication to keeping Bulgarian traditions vibrant across the diaspora.
Topics: #dance #groups #essen
It will be interesting to see how the two styles blend in their first joint performance.