Roses of Bulgaria - 2nd Annual Concert
May 18th, 2024
The “Roses of Bulgaria” 2nd Annual Concert was a vibrant celebration of Bulgarian culture, bringing together dance groups from diverse locations. The groups that performed at the event were Ensemble Zornitza, Hubavitsi Performance Group, Folk Misteria, Hopa Trop Folk Ensemble, Seattle Cheta Performance Group, and the Folk Group Kitka. Other instrumental performances include Duo Balkanaria, and Hristo Popov – Kuker. This spectacular event showcased the rich tapestry of Bulgarian heritage through music, dance, and culinary delights. The atmosphere was electric as performers took to the stage, each group presenting dances that highlighted the unique traditions and stories from various regions of Bulgaria. The audience was treated to a diverse range of performances, including dances from the Shopian regions, Thracian regions, Pirin Macedonian regions, northern regions, and Varna regions of Eastern Europe. The famous song “Ripni Kalinke” from the Rodopi region was also featured, adding to the cultural richness of the event. This song was particularly special as it marked the debut performance for singer, Dania, and gajda player Christian, both part of the Zornitza Dance Ensemble.
A highlight of the evening was the performance of a dance from dance ensemble Zornitza’s newest collection, “Lazaruvane,” deeply rooted in Bulgarian folklore, and received an enthusiastic response from the audience. Each dance was accompanied by beautiful, traditional costumes, meticulously crafted with intricate embroidery and vibrant colors, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the performances. The music was equally captivating, with traditional instruments such as the Gajda played by Christian Oljaca, the Accordion played by Konstantin Bozhinov, and the Tupan played by Gencho Kalaykov providing an authentic soundscape that transported the audience to Bulgaria.
The concert was managed by many dedicated volunteers from the dance group Zornitza and other members of the Bulgarian, and Serbian communities. Numerous Bulgarian businesses also supported the event, contributing to its overall success. The combination of food, lively music, and dynamic dancing created an immersive cultural experience that was both entertaining and educational. The “Roses of Bulgaria” concert was a great success, drawing a full house of guests and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
The event did not end with the performances; after dinner, a dance party continued until midnight, allowing guests to further enjoy the festive atmosphere. From the energetic performances to the flavorful cuisine and the lively dance party, every element of the event contributed to a deeper appreciation of Bulgarian culture. It was a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate their shared heritage in a joyous and festive environment.
The concert was held on May 18, 2024 at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church’s Hall., from 5:00 PM to Midnight, hosted by “Mlada Srbadia”.
Autor: Christian Oljaca