We are opening the door to Slovácky folklore, which showcases the traditional folk culture, customs, songs, dances, crafts, and traditions of the Slovácko region. This area, located in the southeastern part of Moravia, carries a rich history and cultural heritage, manifested in various aspects of its folklore. We present to you the Folklore Ensemble of Songs and Dances Handrlák.
"Folklore ensemble of songs and dances HANDRLÁK z.s. is based in Kunovice, in the heart of the ethnographic region of Slovácko. It draws from the Moravské' Dolňácko, Kopanice, and Kyjovsko areas. In its work, it strives to find and revive almost forgotten songs, dances, customs, and traditions of its region. It aims for a distinctive interpretation of Slovácko folklore,” says Pavlína Hrdlíková, head of the ensemble's dance component, in an interview.
FS Handrlák nurtures several generations, Source: fb FSPT Handrlák
The ensemble's origin stems from the children's folklore ensemble Handrláček in 2001, while the history of the children's ensemble dates back to 1986. "It was founded by Ludmila Habartová, who tragically passed away in 2007. She will forever remain in our hearts, and we constantly remember her with respect, love, and gratitude,” Pavlína explains. The cheerful name "Handrlák" itself evolved from the story of an old rag collector who went from house to house exchanging old rags for porcelain cups and saucers.
Beautiful colorful costumes representing Slovácko, Source: FB FSPT Handrlák
The ensemble represents Slovácko culture not only at home but also abroad. Their songs and dances have resonated at numerous international festivals in Poland, Lithuania, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Greece, Germany, Turkey, France, Portugal, Ukraine, Russia, Albania, Montenegro, and many other countries. In addition, it is also an integral part of the local cultural life. They regularly participate in the traditional "Kunovice Hodky" (Kunovice Festival) and also organize events "Verbuňk Dance School" and "Folk Dance School".
Kunovice Ride of the Kings, Source: FS Handrlák website
In every performance, Handrlák brings to the stage the atmosphere and colorfulness of regional costumes, expressing the richness or, conversely, the modesty of individual areas. Cimbalom music with primáš Štěpán Vaculík plays to their beat, and choreographies are created by Jiří Lůčný, Miloš Plachý, Ludmila Habartová, Pavlína Hrdlíková, and Dominik Skucius. The head of the dance section is Pavlína Hrdlíková, and the organizational leader of the ensemble is Jiří Lůčný.
The musical component, an inseparable part, Source: FB FSPT Handrlák
Trnavská Brána can look forward to an unforgettable experience full of living tradition, colorful costumes, and contagious enthusiasm that FS Handrlák will bring to the stage.
