The dance troupes “Shevitsa,” based in Essen, and “Mila Rodina” from Krefeld, are set to participate jointly under the name “Shevitsi from Mila Rodina.” They will feature in the 11th Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance travelling festival, scheduled for May 15 through 17 at BMW Park in Munich. The union of these two groups marks their first collaborative performance, stemming from a mutual commitment to preserving and promoting Bulgarian culture internationally, according to their leader, Ivandzhelin Ivanova. The ensemble will present the dance “Shopska Zakachka” (“Shopi tease”), a routine choreographed by Iliya Petkov.
This performance draws inspiration from traditional dances originating in the Shopluk folklore region, aiming to recreate the lively atmosphere and playful interactions characteristic of village celebrations. The performing body comprises 22 dancers, whose ages range from 14 to over 60. Several members were born or raised in Germany but maintain deep cultural ties to their Bulgarian heritage.
Preparation for the festival has involved intensive weekly rehearsals, alongside the meticulous creation of costumes and accessories. This travelling festival serves as a gathering point for amateur Bulgarian folklore ensembles from various countries. Since its inception in 2015, the event has taken place in several European cities, providing a platform for cultural exchange.
The joint appearance by the groups from Essen and Krefeld highlights the continued dedication of the diaspora to keeping Bulgarian cultural traditions alive through dance.
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