The dance groups “Shevitsa,” based in Essen, and “Mila Rodina,” an amateur ensemble from Krefeld, are set to collaborate for their first joint appearance. They will perform together under the combined name, “Shevitsi from Mila Rodina,” at the 11th Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance travelling festival. This event is scheduled to take place from May 15 to May 17 at the BMW Park in Munich.
The unification of the two groups stems from a mutual dedication to Bulgarian folklore and a commitment to preserving and promoting Bulgarian culture internationally, according to their leader, Ivandzhelin Ivanova. For their performance, the dancers have choreographed “Shopska Zakachka” (“Shopi tease”), a routine inspired by traditional dances from the Shopluk folklore region. The piece aims to recapture the lively spirit and playful interactions characteristic of village celebrations.
The ensemble comprises 22 dancers, whose ages range from 14 to over 60. While some members were born or raised in Germany, they maintain strong cultural ties to their Bulgarian heritage. Preparations for the festival have involved intensive rehearsals held multiple times weekly, alongside the detailed creation of costumes and necessary accessories.
The travelling festival serves as a gathering point for amateur Bulgarian folklore ensembles from across the globe. Since its inception in 2015, the event has hosted celebrations in various European cities, highlighting the enduring connection between diaspora communities and their cultural roots through the art of dance.
Topics: #dance #groups #essen
