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Latvian folk dance ensemble “Lielupe” has won a silver medal and a cash prize at the international folk dance competition held as part of the Cheonan World Dance Festival in South Korea. The festival took place from 1 to 5 October and brought together dance ensembles from around the world.

Earlier this year, “Lielupe” earned the opportunity to represent Latvia in Cheonan after successfully advancing through the first selection round, which featured 58 dance ensembles from across the globe. Following two semi-finals, the Latvian ensemble secured a place in the final alongside eight other top ensembles representing countries including Argentina, French Polynesia, Bulgaria, China and others.

The competition was judged by a nine-member jury representing the International Dance Festivals Federation (FIDAF). Throughout the competition, “Lielupe” received praise and recognition for its performances, as well as invitations to participate in international festivals in several countries next summer.

Elita Simsone, Artistic Director of “Lielupe”, described the experience as both a major challenge and an honour: “Taking part in a festival and competition that brings together professional artists and passionate dance enthusiasts is both a tremendous challenge and a great honour. At a competition of this scale, there are so many unknown and unpredictable factors that it is impossible to prepare for everything. We are truly delighted, happy and proud to have taken second place among professional ensembles from around the world. We are proud to represent Latvia and Jelgava and to bring Latvian folk dance to audiences around the world.”

The international dance competition in Cheonan is held as part of the annual festival organised by the International Dance Festivals Federation (FIDAF). Founded in Cheonan in 2012, FIDAF brings together representatives from more than 70 countries, including dance professionals, ensembles and festival organisers.

The Cheonan World Dance Festival is one of Asia’s largest international dance festivals, attracting performers from around the world each year.

This year, Latvia was represented at the competition by “Lielupe”, the folk dance ensemble of the municipal institution “Culture” of Jelgava State City, under the artistic direction of Elita Simsone.

This article has been translated from Latvian to English using the help of ChatGPT AI.