In Winnipeg, the Slovenian community is very small; the opportunities to learn more about its culture are limited. So, I thought that visiting the Slovenian Pavilion would be a good start. August 14, 2010 was the last day of Folklorama 2010. The pavilion being located in the gymnasium of Daniel McIntyre High School, there was a lot of room to sit. Food included traditional Slovenian barbecued pork and chicken, roasted daily on site. For drinks, there were Laško Pivo beer and a selection of wines.
The show started with a couple of traditional dances featuring children. They were really sweet to watch move and hold hands in their cute traditional costumes. Then, a group of six musicians took the stage to play and sing folk tunes. Finally, it was time for dances once again. Adult performers were just as fun to watch as the children. They moved in harmony; pairs shared beautiful smiles. It felt as though Slovenia was right in front of our eyes.
Despite the apparent simplicity of the traditional costumes, their vibrant colors spoke of individuals who had overcome a lot of odds to become the people they are today. It was also interesting to learn that depending on their birth region in Slovenia, Slovenes dress in a slightly different manner.
Outside, after the show, a group of children was singing traditional songs and thanking guests for visiting them. They had mesmerizing voices. As I stood there listening for a few moments, I realized that children are the key to a better future. By teaching them to keep their culture alive, parents give them the most beautiful gift in the world: They make them responsible human beings and future great adults.
The Slovenian Pavilion was a great venue. I recommend you to check it out if it is on the program of Folklorama 2011!
For more information on Slovenia and the Slovenian community in Manitoba, visit the Canadian Slovenian Cultural Society Website.
Folklorama 2010: all the reviews
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Tropical 99 at Folklorama Culture at the CUBE
Colombian Pavilion at Folklorama Culture at the CUBE
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Cendrine Marrouat is a writer, published author and translator living in Canada. Official Website: http://www.cendrinemarrouat.com
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