Dear Colleagues,
You are cordially invited to the theatre performance "Samodiva's Love," which will take place on 12 May 2025, at the Gerbe in the Palais de l'Europe between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Through Bulgarian traditional dances and songs, you will discover the lives of creatures known as "Samodivas" found in Balkan folklore mythology.
"Samodivas" are wood nymphs, wild fairies, often described as young women of captivating beauty, with long hair and blue eyes. They are associated with nature and the Balkan Mountains. They appear in spring and disappear in autumn, living in winter in a mythical village called Zmejkovo, the home of dragons. Their supernatural power lies in their crowns of wildflowers and their way of dancing in the forest after dark. Fascinating and mysterious, these creatures of Bulgarian folklore embody strength in the quest for love, a quest enhanced by the traditional songs and dances of the Balkans, where love and tolerance always triumph.
The show will be performed by the young artists of the group "Harlequin" from Varna, Bulgaria. For 25 years, "Harlequin" has cultivated excellence through theatre, song, and dance, offering performances for young audiences across Europe.
Contact: Hristo.Hristov@coe.int