The first Bulgarian folklore dance ensemble in Chicago marked its 20th anniversary with a concert. The Bulgarian Consul in the city, Svetoslav Stankov, presented the founder and leader of the “Horo” ensemble, Irina Gocheva, with a special certificate awarded by the Illinois State Senate on the occasion of their anniversary.
“Let Evil Sink into the Ground and Goodness Reign”—this was the name given to this incredible nearly 3-hour concert by the organizers and participants.
At the Copernicus Center in Chicago, the sounds of bagpipes echoed, drums beat rhythmically, and traditional Bulgarian dances filled the stage, with dancers ranging from 4 to 70 years old, while the audience filled the hall with applause. Special guests included singers Yoana and Kalina Andreevi and Neli Andreeva, the soloist of the National Folklore Ensemble “Philip Kutev.” The ensemble, which started with just seven members, now boasts over 50 dancers, with several groups in different age categories.
Mariyana Mankova, who has been with the ensemble since the very beginning, recalls: “I danced with the ‘Strandzha’ ensemble in Burgas, and when I came here, I learned about the ‘Horo’ ensemble— I immediately joined because dance is in my heart and soul.”
For 20 years, Mariyana has tirelessly rehearsed, participated in festivals and performances, the exact number of which no one can count. Three generations of dancers have passed through the ensemble, yet the founders and leaders, Irinka and Todor Gochevi, continue to work with the same passion and dedication, creating a little Bulgaria on American soil.