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About the folk dancing ensemble "Ivan Goran Kovacic"
Throughout history the songs, dance and fashion of people reflected the signs of the times, the way they lived, the culture to which they belonged. In this day and age, when the world is becoming an expanding global village, it is becoming harder and harder to hold on to old customs. That is why our ensemble "Ivan Goran Kovacic" aspires to keep Croatia's folk traditions alive by nurturing the songs, dances, costumes and customs which are specific to Croatia.
The student cultural organization "Ivan Goran Kovacic", which we are a part of, was founded in 1948, and consists of many sections other than the folklore section, such as the choir, drama, orchestra, etc. Our organization was always one of the leaders in creating and continuing Croatian culture. During the last fifty years, from generation to generation, the ensemble has not only passed on the knowledge of Croatian folklore, but has passed on a great appreciation and love for Croatia's heritage. Through working together, socializing, and through the love of folklore, the members of the folklore ensemble "Ivan Goran Kovacic" have created a spirit of unity which has always made "Kovacic" distinct.
From its beginnings "Ivan Goran Kovacic" has continually expanded its costume collection. The ensemble proudly boasts over 450 complete, original costumes from all over Croatia, some of which have great value; the rest are reproductions made in a traditional, authentic manner.
"Ivan Goran Kovacic" has in its repertoire over twenty choreographies and musical numbers which represent every region of Croatia: Baranja, Slavonija,
Medjimurje, Posavina, Prigorje, Zagorje, Istra, Dalmatia, Dalmatinska Zagora and of Croatians from
Backa. The group toured Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Macedonia, Moldavia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Spain and the USA, where it was well received and obtained great reviews. During the aggression against Croatia the Group held a number of charity concerts in Croatia and abroad with the cooperation of DD Pliva and the Croatian Ministry of Defense. During 1993 and 1994 the group went on a very successful tour of Australia New Zealand and Brazil. There they held many concerts for Croatian
immigrants.
For information about the folk dancing ensemble "IGK", visit their web site at
pubwww.srce.hr/igk. |
