After a successful performance at the Zagreb International Folklore Festival, members of the Folklore Ensemble also sang in the premises of the CHF. For many, it is the first visit to their ancestral homeland
On July 22, members of the “Proljeće” Folklore Ensemble from Argentina visited the Croatian Heritage Foundation in Zagreb. Guests arrived in the Croatian metropolis to perform at the 60th Zagreb International Folklore Festival.
Members of the Ensemble were greeted and welcomed by Ivana Rora, CHF Deputy Director, who expressed satisfaction with their arrival and the opportunity to become acquainted with the work of Croatian folklore performers who, far from their homeland, are committed to preserving and passing down Croatian traditional culture.
The meeting took place in a cordial atmosphere, with a discussion on the activities of the Folklore Ensemble, the preservation of Croatian identity in Argentina and the importance of connecting young descendants of Croatian emigrants with the homeland of their ancestors, given that members of the Folklore Ensemble mostly belong to the third and fourth generation of Croatian emigrants.
Many members of the Ensemble have participated in various programs of the Croatian Heritage Foundation over the years, while two members will further improve their knowledge this year by participating in the Summer School of Croatian Folklore.
Members of “Proljeće” Folklore Ensemble also gave their hosts a short musical surprise and sang the Croatian traditional song “Letovanić”, while ensemble member Lucija touched many with her solo interpretation of the song “Julijuša deneka dvanajstoga” from the Međimurje region.
After performing at the Zagreb International Folklore Festival, the ensemble members, twenty-three of them, are continuing their trip through Croatia and are going to the island of Rab, where they will participate in the program of the Rab Fair.
Text and photo: CHF
