Saturday at the Trnavská Brána Festival continues the folk celebration, this time taking viewers on a stroll to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Moravia. Finally, in the spirit of "there's no place like home," we'll conclude the evening with "Tradovanie v trojici", a triple bill featuring UFS Trnafčan, FS Ekonóm, and FS Považan.
The second festival evening opens at 7:00 PM with the international guests program "Dojdzite k nám" (Come Visit Us). First to perform is the South Bohemian folklore ensemble Handrlák from Kunovice. Geographically located in the heart of the Slovácko ethnographic region, they will bring authentic Moravian folklore to Trnava. The ensemble is characterized by its dedication to reviving almost forgotten songs, dances, and customs from Dolňácko, Kopanice, and Kyjovsko. Their performances are known for their distinctive interpretation of Slovácko folklore, showcased in both rich and modest costumes that represent regional diversity. The ensemble will be accompanied by the Cimbalom Orchestra Čarapa with primáš (lead violinist) Štěpán Vaculík. Their unique flavor of folklore has already been appreciated by audiences in various corners of Europe.
Photo: FS Handrlák, Source: FS Handrlák Archive
Balkan Temperament Brought by Bosnia and Herzegovina
The folklore club Piskavica from Banja Luka will present unique traditional songs and dances from the Potkozarje region. Despite being a relatively young ensemble (founded in 2002), it boasts over 150 active members of diverse ages, from 10 to 70 years old. Dance groups are accompanied by a typical folk orchestra and traditional instruments such as the tambura trozica. The old dance Kozaračko kolo also originates from this region, and is expected to be included in the intangible heritage of UNESCO in the near future.
Photo: KUD Piskavica, Photo: KUD Piskavica Archive
"Tradovanie v trojici" (Tradition in Trio) with Trnafčan, Ekonóm, and Považan
After the diverse program of guests, the local trio will return to the stage to present “Tradovanie v trojici” (Tradition in Trio) at 8:30 PM. Trnafčan will be joined by folklore ensembles Ekonóm and Považan. The history of the Folklore Ensemble Ekonóm began in May 1969 at the University of Economics in Bratislava. The ensemble members come from various parts of Slovakia, and therefore brought and continue to bring the rich cultural heritage of their native regions to the capital. The ensemble has also been shaped by many prominent choreographers and musicians. Young blood of members, predominantly students of Bratislava's secondary and tertiary schools, still flows in its veins today. Bratislava's Ekonóm boasts various interesting awards – the award for musical arrangement (Telgárt 2015), the award for original theme and stage processing (Akademický Zvolen 2011), and the award for stylish dance interpretation (Akademická Nitra 2010).
Photo: FS Ekonóm, Photo: FS Ekonóm Archive
The trio will be concluded by the talented “Považanci” (FS Považan). Považan is among the oldest folklore ensembles in Slovakia. It was founded in 1954 at the factory club of Považské strojárne in Považská Bystrica. The fact that its members are folklorists at heart is evidenced by the fact that it has raised dozens of talented singers, musicians, and dancers, who often continue their professional careers in artistic ensembles such as Lúčnica or as leaders of other folklore groups. The ensemble participates in the biggest Slovak festivals such as Východná, Detva, Myjava, and many others. Považan has performed throughout Slovakia, Europe, the USA, and Algeria.
FS Považan, Source: FS Považan Archive
There is more than enough program – let yourself be carried away by the beauty of dances and songs that connect generations and cultures. The traditional Trnavská Brána Folklore Festival is an opportunity to see how traditions live and breathe in the hearts of people across the world. Don't miss unique evenings full of music, dance, and authentic experiences. Grab your ticket for Friday and Saturday's program here.
