https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/rss Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:23:23 +0300 en hourly 1 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101466-legendary-bulgarian-folk-singer-yanka-rupkina-passes-away-at-87 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101466-legendary-bulgarian-folk-singer-yanka-rupkina-passes-away-at-87 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:18:00 +0300 Yanka Rupkina, one of Bulgaria’s most celebrated folk singers and an international ambassador of Bulgarian folklore, has passed away at the age of 87 following a prolonged illness. News of her passing was first reported by the Bulgarian National Television Tuesday. Born on August 15, 1938, in the village of Bogdanovo, Rupkina grew up immersed in traditional music, inspired by her grandmother, also a folk singer. Although she initially trained as a nurse, Rupkina’s passion for music never wavered. She joined the Bulgarian National Radio Folk Ensemble in 1961 and became a soloist for three decades, recording hundreds of songs from the Strandzha region, preserving Bulgaria’s musical heritage for future generations. Her signature song, “Kalimanku, Denku mari hubava”, remains an enduring emblem of Bulgarian folklore. Rupkina’s international fame was further cemented with the creation of the trio Bulgarka in 1975, whose collaborations included legendary musicians like George Harrison, Kate Bush, and Prince. She contributed to the Grammy-winning album Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares, Volume Two, helping bring Bulgarian folk music to global audiences. Throughout her life, Rupkina remained devoted to sharing her art, performing worldwide, mentoring ensembles, and celebrating her roots in Bogdanovo, which inspired much of her repertoire. Her numerous awards include the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius and recognition as an Honorary Citizen of Burgas. Reflecting on her career, Rupkina once said she worked “for the name, for the music, for Bulgaria,” dedicating 64 years to her craft. She leaves behind a legacy of musical excellence, cultural preservation, and inspiration that transcends generations. Reacting to the news of the singer's passing, President Iliana Iotova said that "we have lost a voice that was close to the spirit, the East and life, a voice in which Bulgarian memory echoed". "Bulgaria lost a personality that had her life dedicated to one of our biggest spiritual treasures: folk songs," the President added. The Culture Ministry, too, put out a message of condolences. "Her work remains permanently inscribed in Bulgaria’s cultural memory and continues to be a source of inspiration and a guide for fidelity to tradition. As a soloist in the Bulgarian National Radio Folk Ensemble, and as part of the vocal trio Bulgarka, she made a significant contribution to the recognition and promotion of Bulgarian folklore both nationally and internationally. Her performances are distinguished by deep emotionality, stylistic purity, and respect for tradition," said the Ministry. Following is a piece about Yanka Rupkina that the BTA English service published in 1999 when she celebrated 40 years on stage.  Folk Singer Yanka Roupkina Celebrates 40 Years on the Stage Sofia, January 5, 1999 (BTA) - Amond the most ardent admirers of the talent of Bulgarian folk singer Yanka Rupkina are US producer Joe Boyd, former Beatle George Harrison and Kate Bush. 60-year-old Rupkina, who is one of the most popular Bulgarian folk singers, has just celebrated 40 years of stage life. Boyd (who has worked with Pink Floyd) popularized abroad the Bulgarka trio of which Roupkina is a member.  Thanks to Boyd, the trio (comprising of Rupkina, Eva Georgieva and Stoyanka Boneva) had the chance to perform at one of the biggest London venues - Royal Festival.  On this occasion, the trio met Harrison who happened to be in the audience. The trio is the first Bulgarian folk act to be invited to perform abroad by Marcel Selier - the person who popularized worldwide Stefka Subotinova's song "The Mountain Collapsed." Famed BBC showhost Terry Wogan invited the trio to take part in the 500th edition of his show. Said Rupkina about the trio's first tour abroad:  "When they heard me sing they insisted that I stay on but as an opera singer." Rupkina says she does not regret becoming a folk singer but wants also to have the chance to perform some of the best operatic works. She admires Bulgarian singers Raina Kabaivanska and Gena Dimitrova; the latter Rupkina admires as a a person as well as a performer for her heartiness, selflessness and openheartedness.  "But Boris Hristov is the pinnacle for me," Rupkina confesses her admiration for the renowned Bulgarian basso. Rupkina was taught folk songs be her grandmother whose name she bears.  She became the soloist of the Ensemble of the Bulgarian National Radio in 1961.  She has sang all over the world and has toured the US, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Greece, Australia, Finland, Japan, Italy and Canada.  Rupkina is adamant that she will quit the stage while she is still on top.  "I will not allow to be pitied," she says. "My whole life has been directed by a drive for perfection. The folk singer must be very exacting towards themselves since they are in the realm of an art created by the people's genius," she says. Rupkina took to wearing a small Bulgarian national flag on her hat after a festival in Carthagena in 1967 when she heard the Bulgarian national anthem played in her honour.  Roupkina, one of the most quintessential Bulgarian singers, sees herself as a cosmic person and does not deplore the fact that one of her songs was not sent into space. Rupkina is contemplating writing an autobiography in which she may dwell on the chapel which she intends to build in her home village of Bogdanovo in the Strandja Planina and on her many friends worldwide. "I adore the music of the Beatles and George Harrison.  When I was visiting his house, Harrison presented me with a vinyl record on the sleeve of which he wrote "To the Greatest Voice on the Planet, with Lots of Love, George Harrison." Just days before Christmas, Rupkina celebrated what she considers to be her second birth - an incident in 1971 when en route to Algeria she was one of 28 people to survive a plane crash. "I believe strongly in dead trees.  One of my songs tells the story of the impossible love between tow young people.  As a result, the young man withers like a dying tree," Roupkina says in connection with a song she intends to perform at a concert marking 40 years of her stage career. "The integrity of the whole is something we ought to respect. Individuals will be individuals, their gift is God-given but team spirit is something momentous," Rupkina says in connection with her love of sports.  DD/IT/GG 16:27:11 05-01-1999 -0- Culture https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101427-president-iotova-awards-24-chasa-media-platform-with-presidential-badge-of-honou https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101427-president-iotova-awards-24-chasa-media-platform-with-presidential-badge-of-honou Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:03:44 +0300 Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova presented the Presidential Badge of Honour to the 24 Chasa media platform during a ceremony held in the Coat of Arms Hall of the presidential institution on Tuesday. The distinction marks the 35th anniversary of the founding of the 24 Chasa newspaper. The Honorary Badge was awarded in recognition of the media platform’s contribution to the development of Bulgarian journalism and its support for socially significant causes. “In a time of so much hatred, division and confrontation, in the fractured world we live in, and amid competition from artificial intelligence, you are performing brilliantly,” Iotova said. Culture Yoana Hristova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/sport/1101140-giro-d-italia-2026-cycling-in-bulgaria-bta-presents-new-section https://www.bta.bg/en/news/sport/1101140-giro-d-italia-2026-cycling-in-bulgaria-bta-presents-new-section Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:54:00 +0300 The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) is presenting Tuesday a new section, Giro d’Italia 2026 – Cycling in Bulgaria, focused on coverage of the three Bulgarian stages of the Giro, which will be taking place May 8-10, 2026. BTA Director General Kiril Valchev told a news conference in the BTA National Press Club that the section will also offer articles about Bulgarian cycling clubs and competitions, cycling infrastructure and bicycle manufacturing in Bulgaria.  He underscored the importance of the BTA archive, which dates back to the 1898 and offers a lot of information about the traditions of cycling in Bulgaria.  Participating in the Tuesday news conference were all 33 BTA national press clubs, the BTA correspondents across the country, the Sport News Department and the mayors of settlements along the Giro route in Bulgaria, said Valchev. In Giro d’Italia 2026 – Cycling in Bulgaria, BTA will cover the race itself - viewers will even see the overall winner of the Italian stage, thanks to BTA’s partnership with Italy’s national news agency, ANSA. The section will also showcase Bulgaria, highlighting the towns and regions along the race route. "However, the Giro d’Italia is really just a starting point for a permanent platform across all BTA correspondents in the country - Cycling in Bulgaria - covering cycling events, races, clubs, bike routes, the country’s cycling infrastructure, and bicycle manufacturing, while drawing on BTA’s rich archives," said the BTA Director General. He emphasized the importance of partnering with colleagues from Bulgarian National Television and Bulgarian National Radio, and noted that BTA will provide content for all private media. "Unlike colleagues in the competitive advertising market, our content is freely accessible; we do not seek advertising," Valchev reminded. The BTA Director General highlighted that the Bulgarian Cycling Union began its history in Ruse as early as 1902 - nearly as long as BTA itself, which was founded in 1898, he added. Another focus of the new section will be bicycle manufacturing in Bulgaria, he said. BTA archives hold a photo of the first bicycle produced between 1880–1882 in Nova Zagora, then part of Eastern Rumelia, by Geno 'Arabadjiata' Stoyanov. He also noted that the iconic Balkan bicycle remains a well-remembered symbol. During the presentation of the new section, BTA screened a two-minute film on the history of cycling and bicycle manufacturing in Bulgaria, as well as a BTA initiative for a cycling tour from Sofia to Karlovo dedicated to the anniversary of the birth of national hero Vasil Levski. Participating in the event at BTA were also Tourism Minister Irena Georgieva, Sport Minister Dimitar Iliev, Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev, Bulgarian National Television Director General Milena Milotinova, Bulgarian National Radio Director General Milen Mitev, representatives of the local authorities, sport and sectoral organizations.  This year, Bulgaria will be hosting the Grande Partenza - the opening stage - of the Italian cycling tour. The route goes by natural and cultural landmarks, divided in three stages. The first is from Nessebar to Burgas on May 8, the second from Burgas to Veliko Tarnovo on May 9 and the third is from Plovdiv to Sofia on May 10, 2026.  Sport Ekaterina Toteva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101091-multidisciplinary-exhibition-imagines-life-after-civilizational-and-ecological-c https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101091-multidisciplinary-exhibition-imagines-life-after-civilizational-and-ecological-c Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:23:16 +0300 A multidisciplinary art installation by Dimitar Solakov explores the fate of humanity in a future shaped by civilizational and environmental collapse. It is the focus of the exhibition Wasteland, which will open at the Credo Bonum Gallery in Sofia on April 8, to run until May 8, the hosts said on Tuesday. In a description of the exhibition, the gallery says: "This is a world in which humanity has been erased, leaving behind only the continuation of its own technological achievements. At the centre of the exhibition stands the figure of the 'last human', a recurring anthropomorphic motif representing the last being, still capable of guilt, prayer, suffering and hope. It is precisely this residual humanity that distinguishes him from the surrounding world, yet it does not give him the power to alter the ultimate outcome. He remains merely a witness. The Earth is a barren landscape. The human figure embraces a dead tree or stretches its arms towards the sky, a gesture of mourning for nature and an appeal to something beyond it." The hosts note: "The space also includes spherical autonomous robots, presented as an image of artificial intelligence and a possible successor to humanity. They respond to a sound environment composed of wind, low-frequency tones and fragments of human voices, creating a sense of absence and of a presence that has passed." According to the gallery, in this possible future, technology no longer needs humanity and begins its own form of existence, beyond human control and logic. Dimitar Solakov was born in 1987 and graduated from New Bulgarian University in 2011. In his work, he uses photography, video, drawing, painting and 3D-printed objects. His projects explore the relationship between nature, urbanization and humanity, and themes related to climate change and the future of the human species. The artist has contributed to numerous international exhibitions, including projects at Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Biennale of Sydney and PHotoEspana, and has held solo exhibitions in Bulgaria and abroad. Culture Valentin Evstatiev https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101044-salon-des-arts-opens-in-sofia-with-iconic-melodies-by-harpist-alexander-boldac https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1101044-salon-des-arts-opens-in-sofia-with-iconic-melodies-by-harpist-alexander-boldac Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:45:00 +0300 The 23rd spring edition of the Salon des Arts, hosted by the National Palace of Culture (NDK) in Sofia, opened on Monday evening with a concert by Zurich-based harpist Alexander Boldachev. The show at Hall 3 of NDK ranged from Baroque classics to rock hits and film music, and concluded with enthusiastic applause and an encore. Before the concert, NDK Executive Director Andriana Petkova greeted the audience and presented this year's edition of the festival, which comes on NDK's 45th anniversary. "We have prepared a very strong Salon for you, and we are beginning with an extraordinary concert," Petkova said. She announced some of the upcoming events: an exhibition by Pavel Koychev, a children's opera by the Stara Zagora Opera House, theatre productions and film screenings, among others. On May 31, children from Sofia will be invited to paint on a large white canvas what NDK means to them. "Alexander Boldachev demonstrates all the nuances and possibilities of the harp," said Dr Kohar Andonyan-Kradjyan, a harp lecturer at the Lyubomir Pipkov National Music School, who introduced Monday's performer. Boldachev addressed the audience in English. "This is my second visit to Bulgaria and my first to Sofia," he said. "My mission and desire is to share with you everything I wish to express through this instrument and to offer something for everyone," the musician said. His concert, entitled Iconic Melodies, unfolded in five parts, with Boldachev speaking to the audience between each section to explain what was to follow. The first part, "Rock Baroque", featured works by Bach, Vivaldi and Daken. The second, titled "There Will Come Soft Rains...", was dedicated to Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky and Shostakovich. The third, "True Love", brought together Debussy, Chopin, Brahms and Piazzolla. In the fourth part, "Childhood Memories", the harpist performed music from popular video games and films. The final section, "Classical Pop", included works by artists and bands such as Gotye, Scorpions, Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Lennon, Queen and Nirvana. The Salon des Arts will run until June 2, turning NDK into a hub of cultural life in the capital for nearly two months. Alexander Boldachev is an internationally recognized and award-winning musician, having performed on prestigious stages such as Carnegie Hall in New York, Musikverein in Vienna, and Salle Gaveau in Paris. He is a virtuoso classical performer known as an improviser, producer, and composer of film and theatre music. Boldachev is an honorary professor at the Royal Academy of Music in London, the music school at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Conservatory of Milan, Italy. He holds Swiss citizenship, is the founder of the Zurich Harp Festival, and the initiator of World Harp Day. Culture Valentin Evstatiev Ivan Dolev https://www.bta.bg/en/bg-world/1100642-daniel-spasov-from-svetoglas-quartet-we-will-take-part-in-easter-liturgy-and-pe https://www.bta.bg/en/bg-world/1100642-daniel-spasov-from-svetoglas-quartet-we-will-take-part-in-easter-liturgy-and-pe Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:47:00 +0300 The Bulgarian quartet Svetoglas - The Mystery of Bulgarian Polyphony, will take part in the festive Easter service in Dublin, led by Metropolitan Anthony of Western and Central Europe. The church event will be held on April 12 at All Hallows Chapel, located on the campus of Dublin City University. The Svetoglas Quartet will participate in the liturgy at the invitation of Metropolitan Anthony. Following the Easter service, the ensemble will perform several chants both in the church and at the Bulgarian Embassy in Dublin, the quartet's co-founder Daniel Spasov told BTA. The quartet will also meet members of the Bulgarian community, with events organized by the Bulgarian Embassy in the Irish capital. "For us, this participation is to some extent a challenge, because we usually perform these chants in concert programmes," Spasov said. He explained that the chants are part of the liturgy but have been extracted as masterpieces of Orthodox music, often of anonymous authorship. Most of the pieces performed by the ensemble belong to the monodic stage in the development of the Church Slavonic musical tradition. "Others are already harmonized for choir, polyphonic. We have mostly performed them in concert settings," he added. Spasov also spoke about the quartet's participation in the festive event in Dublin: "This is the first time we will join the liturgy and take on the role of the choir. After that, we will present the album we released together with the Bulgarian National Radio, 'Ancient Hymns of Orthodoxy - Music from the Monasteries'." This is the second album by Svetoglas dedicated to Church Slavonic music. About ten years ago, the quartet released a similar project titled "Molenie Gospodne", recorded in the natural acoustic environment of the Sts Cyril and Methodius Klisura Monastery by a leading Greek sound engineer and professor at the Athens Conservatory, BTA said. The newer project differs in that it includes previously unpublished Church Slavonic works. "Some of them we discovered ourselves in collections from the Kremikovtsi Monastery," Spasov said. "Some retain a more archaic, monodic style, while others are based on old neumatic notation and have been newly harmonized by our conductor Milen Ivanov." He said the aim is to offer a contemporary interpretation without compromising the original and canonical sound of the chants. "The goal is to bring them closer to the sensibility of today's listener through sound production. This music is often associated strictly with church services, but it is also part of our broader musical culture and can sound in different ways," Spasov said, noting that the ensemble has presented such programmes at international spiritual and sacred music festivals. The project "Ancient Hymns of Orthodoxy - Music from the Monasteries" has been presented at venues including the Crypt of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, Bachkovo Monastery, churches in Vidin and Svishtov, and the Belovo Basilica. "Through these performances, audiences become more familiar with the depth of this music," Spasov said. He underlined that church music forms a layer of Bulgarian musical tradition and has influenced the development of the national musical identity. Composers such as Dobri Hristov, Petar Dinev and Apostol Nikolaev-Strumski have created masterpieces by reinterpreting this tradition while preserving its essence. "These are Bulgarian Orthodox musical masterpieces that should reach a wider audience. This is elevating, spiritual music that is, unfortunately, not well known," Spasov said. He added that Svetoglas presents its own interpretation and spiritual connection to the tradition, which is strongly felt by audiences. "Responses have always been extremely positive. Many people have told us that through our performances they have enriched their understanding of this music and its contemporary sound." New projects The quartet is currently working on a new folklore-based project featuring a different repertoire. "These are harmonized folk songs, but we are striving to present them with a contemporary sound," Spasov explained. "We aim to preserve the original roots while bringing the music closer to modern audiences, whose tastes and expectations have changed significantly." He noted that today's musical environment is highly dynamic, requiring a careful balance between commercial appeal, aesthetic value and artistic integrity, without compromising quality. A delegation from Bulgaria will attend the Easter service on April 12, including Kiril Valchev, Milen Mitev and Milena Milotinova, the directors general of the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA), Bulgarian National Radio and Bulgarian National Television, respectively. BG World Ioana Krasteva Diana Dukovska https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1100231-poet-composer-singer-mihail-belchev-dies-at-79 https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1100231-poet-composer-singer-mihail-belchev-dies-at-79 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:09:00 +0300 Singer, composer and poet Mihail Belchev has passed away at the age of 79, his wife Kristina Belcheva told BTA on Monday. Mihail Belchev was born on August 13, 1946, in Sofia. Among his most popular songs are Mladostta Si Otiva (Youth Is Fading), Ne Ostaryavay Lyubov (Don't Grow Old, My Love), Otkrovenie (Revelation), and Priyatelstvo (Friendship), among others. He directed television productions and films, including the first television pantomime performance, Kragovrat. He also composed music for theatre productions and films. He served as Director of the Sofia City Library from 2008 to 2013. Belchev was the author of the autobiographical book Closer and Closer to the Angel (2024). He was awarded the Order of Cyril and Methodius, First Class (1982), four first prizes from the Golden Orpheus festival (1969, 1984, 1990, 1998), and a lifetime achievement award from the same festival (1996). He was granted the title Honoured Artist in 1987. He was the first recipient of the Georgi Dzhagarov National Literary Award of the Union of Bulgarian Writers (July 14, 2004). He was also awarded the Order of Stara Planina, First Class (December 12, 2018), named Honorary Professor of the University of Library Studies and Information Technologies (May 25, 2021), and made an Honorary Citizen of Sofia (2004). In a message of condolences to Belchev's family, President Iliana Iotova wrote: "We have lost Mihail Belchev, a profoundly rich personality whose multifaceted art left a mark on the cultural life of the country and on each of us. His works are experienced as something deeply personal. The deep soul of the renowned artist, from which flowed a source of lyricism, stories, melodies, and songs, expressed our emotions and inspired courage and faith in life, in love, and in humanity." Culture Momchil Rusev Petra Kurteva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1100529-theatre-and-film-academy-commemorates-150th-anniversary-of-krastyo-sarafov-with- https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1100529-theatre-and-film-academy-commemorates-150th-anniversary-of-krastyo-sarafov-with- Mon, 06 Apr 2026 14:00:00 +0300 The National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts (NATFA) celebrated the 150th anniversary of actor and theatre figure Krastyo Sarafov (1876–1952) with a ceremonial Academic Council meeting and official event. The program included an academic speech on Sarafov’s life and work by Prof. Kamelia Nikolova and the unveiling of a commemorative postage stamp featuring his image. A congratulatory letter from Vice President Iliana Iotova highlighted Sarafov’s contributions to Bulgarian theatre and his legacy for future generations. Deputy Minister Dimitar Nedyalkov emphasized Sarafov’s inclusion in Bulgaria’s “alley of fame” in philately and noted a collector coin already issued in his honor.  The event was attended by cultural and state representatives, including the caretaker Minister of Education, media directors, and Sarafov’s nephew. NATFA Rector Prof. Miroslav Dachev presented awards for lifetime contributions, and the academy announced a series of initiatives dedicated to Sarafov for 2026.  The celebration honored Sarafov’s enduring influence on Bulgarian theatre and culture, linking his artistic legacy with education, commemoration, and national recognition.   Last week, BTA hosted a news conference marking the 150th birth anniversary of Krastyo Sarafov.  Culture https://www.bta.bg/en/bg-world/1100169-nashenki-choir-from-milan-to-perform-three-songs-in-munich-nashenzi-group-to-pr https://www.bta.bg/en/bg-world/1100169-nashenki-choir-from-milan-to-perform-three-songs-in-munich-nashenzi-group-to-pr Sun, 05 Apr 2026 21:21:05 +0300 The Nashenzi folk group and the Nashenki choir from Milan, Italy, will participate in the 11th Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance travelling festival in Munich from May 15 to 17. The choir will perform three songs from three different folklore regions - the Rhodopes, the Shopluka, and the Pirin regions. “This is not just a choice of repertoire, but a personal journey through the places that have left a mark on the soul of our wonderful  [choir director and teacher] Vanya Parizova as a musician and a person. Each of these regions carries a different energy, a different pain, and a different strength,” Elena Bratoeva, choreographer of the Nashenki folk group, told BTA. The group is led by Radoslava Nedyalkova. “Our idea is to take the audience through these different emotions - from the depth and sadness of the Rhodopes, through the rhythm and power of Shopluka, to the fire and drama of Pirin,” Bratoeva stated. The choir’s performance in Munich will begin with the Rhodope song Sadil Be Staiko - “a touching and profound song, presented in a three-part choral arrangement by Ilian Yuruchki, which carries that weight and breadth characteristic of the Rhodopes,” explained Bratoeva. After that, Nashenki will move on to Moma Angelinka: “A song that, for me, is more than just music. It is a memory. I sang it back when I was a student in Shiroka Luka, and I have kept the sheet music from those years,” shares Parizova. "The song was composed by Milcho Vasilev; it is dynamic, with numerous modulations and emotional twists - a true challenge and a delight at the same time," commented Bratoeva. The finale is Fato Mori - a song from the Macedonian folk tradition that Nashenki perform with its original lyrics, because they believe that authenticity should not be lost. This year, seven women of different ages will take the stage at the travelling festival:  from the youngest singer - the 9-year-old Alexandra - to 69-year-old Svetlana, who has been part of the group since its founding. “Different lives but united by the same love. We are all here because we feel it,” commented Bratoeva. “I am especially happy that this year our choreographer from the Nashenzi dance grou - Elena - is joining us, and she will also be performing as a singer,” she added. Bratoeva announced that the dance the Nashenzi folk group will perform at this year’s edition of Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance in Munich is her own production, featuring a humorous plot, banter, and playful teasing. It combines acting and will recreate a cheerful everyday situation between Grandpa Baycho and five young girls. “Our grandpa is tired, worn out, and exhausted from the hard work in the fields, but when he sees the girls - young, dressed up, and looking beautiful - it is as if something stirs within him. The feeling of his younger years returns, along with the desire to dance and admire,” comments the choreographer. The musical accompaniment is based on music by Kosta Kolev. “The ethnographic region is Thrace, where I am from; this music simply captivates me, and images from my childhood and Bulgaria come to mind,” said Bratoeva. “The choice of this theme came from one of the dancers, joking among ourselves; I liked the idea, and we immediately got to work. This year, as a choreographer, I am extremely happy and proud that some of the girls from our beginner group will be on stage with us; they work hard and give their all,” she added. Bratoeva noted that Nashenki’s message at the festival will be that there is no age limit for falling in love and loving. “We are working hard, especially on the actors’ stage presence, which is very important for recreating the humorous plot of the dance. The movements are exaggerated and comical - for example, the young man’s proud strutting, the young woman’s flirtatious twisting and fleeing, stumbling, jumping, or unexpected pauses that create an element of surprise,” the choreographer explained. In her words, folklore is not something that is simply preserved: “it is a root and lives within us. And even far from Bulgaria, we carry this music and strength in our hearts and pass it on to future generations.” The Nashenzi folk group is an amateur dance troupe composed of Bulgarians living in Milan, Italy, united by their love of folk dance, ranging in age from 13 to 69. Their leader is Radoslava Nedyalkova, choreographer Elena Bratoeva, and choir director Vanya Parizova. “We perform songs, folk dances, and stage dances from various folklore regions, and we participate in festivals and events organized by Bulgarian communities across Europe. We keep the spirit of tradition alive far from our homeland, and we are united by a single mission - to preserve our folklore in its pure form, to recreate it authentically, and to pass it on with dignity so that it may endure!” Bratoeva told BTA. The travelling festival Expats Join Hands in Worldwide Dance is organized by and for amateur folklore ensembles performing outside Bulgaria. The initiative was launched by the Ot Izvora group in Lyon, France, which hosted both the first edition in 2015 and the tenth edition in 2025. More than 100 dance ensembles and over 4,000 guests are expected at the 11th edition in Munich in May. The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) is the official media partner of the event and will present all participants. BG World Dimitrina Solakova Yoana Krusteva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099947-on-palm-sunday-bulgarian-patriarch-daniil-calls-on-people-to-approach-life-in-f https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099947-on-palm-sunday-bulgarian-patriarch-daniil-calls-on-people-to-approach-life-in-f Sun, 05 Apr 2026 12:30:00 +0300 “Let us bring faith to the coming Savior, just as we bring willow branches,” said Bulgarian Patriarch and Metropolitan of Sofia Daniil, who led a holy liturgy at the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral on Sunday. On this day, the Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of the Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem, also known as Palm Sunday. The Patriarch addressed the faithful with the words: “Let us bring to the coming Savior and conqueror of death our faith, just as we bring these willow branches, the palm branches, the flowers that the people of Jerusalem gathered 2000 years ago when they welcomed Christ. In the same way, let us offer the best of ourselves - our faith, our devotion to God, our virtues - so that the Lord may reign in our hearts, for this is why he comes.” According to him, if people do not have faith, they remain with their sins, and sin reigns. They think like those who do not openly accept Christ, because he does not fit into their political understanding of the Messiah. ”After two thousand years, we still cannot fully understand the meaning of the Holy Scriptures,” said the Patriarch Daniil. “Let us offer faith, let us offer our hearts to Christ, so that he may reign over us forever,” the patriarch concluded. Culture Petya Petrova Kalina Boyadzhieva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099792-bta-building-s-facade-lit-green-for-palm-sunday https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099792-bta-building-s-facade-lit-green-for-palm-sunday Sat, 04 Apr 2026 21:24:00 +0300 The facade of the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) building in Sofia was illuminated in green to mark Palm Sunday, a spring holiday dedicated to the solemn welcoming of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem with olive and laurel branches. This holiday is the last one before Easter. On official and traditional Bulgarian holidays, on significant dates and events, as well as on holidays of organizations of which Bulgaria is a member, the facade of the BTA building is lit up in colours and shapes appropriate for the respective holiday or day.  The BTA building was illuminated for the first time on February 16, 2025, when the Agency celebrated its 127th anniversary. On March 1, when Bulgarians celebrate Baba Marta, the BTA facade was illuminated in white and red. On March 3, on the occasion of the country’s national holiday, the BTA building was lit in the three colours of the Bulgarian flag. To mark the first day of spring, the facade of the BTA building was once again illuminated in green. Culture Dimitrina Solakova Liliya Yordanova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099537-bolhrad-high-school-protocol-prevents-upper-classes-from-closure-education-min https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099537-bolhrad-high-school-protocol-prevents-upper-classes-from-closure-education-min Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:20:41 +0300 "My visit to Kyiv was timely and could not be postponed. If my Ukrainian counterpart and I had not signed the protocol, the upper classes at the G.S. Rakovski Bolhrad High School would have been closed," said Education Minister Sergey Ignatov on Bulgarian National Television on Saturday. He explained that Ukraine is implementing an educational reform and, starting in September, the upper classes at this high school were scheduled to be closed. The protocol concerns only the Bolhrad High School and has nothing to do with the teaching of the Ukrainian language in Bulgaria. Minister Ignatov recalled that the Bolhrad High School is one of the most cherished memories for every Bulgarian from the Revival period. It was founded in 1858 with funds raised by patriotic Bulgarians. A significant part of the Bulgarian revolutionary and intellectual elite completed their education there, including the first rector of the Sofia University Alexander Teodorov-Balan, and Prime Minister Alexander Malinov. The protocol guarantees that students of Bulgarian descent will continue to study the Bulgarian language, as well as Bulgarian literature, history, traditions, and customs, along with other subjects in Bulgarian, in accordance with the curriculum at Bolgrad High School. In addition, they will be provided with textbooks and educational materials necessary for organizing the learning process. The protocol also stipulates that the Bulgarian side will cover enrollment for higher education, bachelor’s or master’s degrees, after the completion of full secondary education for the top graduate of Bolhrad High School, as well as for the winner of the All-Ukrainian Bulgarian Language and Literature Olympiad. “The Bolhrad High School is ours; it was not gifted to us. This protocol has been in preparation since 2022 and has no expiry date. We must provide support to the Bulgarian community in Ukraine and not be stingy in our assistance,” said Minister Ignatov, adding that Ukraine has no claims regarding content in Bulgarian history textbooks. “Nothing has been signed on this topic, and there is no conflict with Russia,” explained Ignatov. He also spoke on the topic of artificial intelligence. “The changes in technology are enormous, but there is no gap between generations. I interact with young people every day. Artificial intelligence has penetrated everywhere, and teachers need to undergo training to use it in education. I want to express my gratitude to former Prime Minister Ivan Kostov for being very active in this field,” said Minister Ignatov. According to him, it is impossible to ban social media, because students cannot be isolated from technology until the age of 16. Culture Petya Petrova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099380-bulgaria-s-tallest-ferris-wheel-is-unveiled-in-sofia https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099380-bulgaria-s-tallest-ferris-wheel-is-unveiled-in-sofia Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:47:26 +0300 A 40-meter Ferris wheel, the tallest in Bulgaria, was unveiled in the Boris’ Garden in Sofia as part of the city’s newest event, Sun Fest Sofia. The opening of the Ferris wheel is included in the festive program marking 147th anniversary of Sofia as capital of Bulgaria. The attraction was manufactured in the Netherlands in 2024. The Ferris wheel features cabins with a capacity of up to six people each, accommodating a total of 150 visitors. The festival will offer a variety of attractions for both children and parents, as well as culinary delights. Germany’s ambassador to Bulgaria, Irene Plank, said during the opening that she had already had the opportunity to ride the Ferris wheel. “A few days ago, I took a trial round and I can say the view is amazing. From above, you can even see the Vasil Levski Stadium,” Plank said. Alexander Petkov, the acting mayor of the Sredets borough, also described the view from the attraction as unique. “I hope the name Sun Fest will herald warmer weather, that we can enjoy the upcoming holidays, and that this attraction will be visited by many people who will get the maximum enjoyment from it. Best of luck,” Petkov said. Sofia’s mayor, Vasil Terziev, was also present and symbolically cut the ribbon at the opening of the Ferris wheel. Terziev was the first to ride the wheel to test it. Culture Petya Petrova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099240-photo-exhibition-of-ukrainian-sculptor-s-works-opens-on-sofia-s-capital-day https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1099240-photo-exhibition-of-ukrainian-sculptor-s-works-opens-on-sofia-s-capital-day Fri, 03 Apr 2026 18:56:14 +0300 A photo exhibition titled "In the Footsteps of Mykhailo Parashchuk," dedicated to the 147th anniversary since Sofia was declared Bulgaria’s capital, was opened on St Nedelya Square on Friday.  Mykhailo Parashchuk was a Ukrainian sculptor and the author of sculptural facades and decorations on buildings in Sofia and other Bulgarian cities. He arrived in Bulgaria in 1921 and lived in this country until his death in 1963. Attending the exhibition opening, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Bulgaria Olesya Ilashchuk said that Parashchuk’s architectural sculptural works adorn the facades of the Rectorate of Sofia University, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the Bulgarian National Bank, the Palace of Justice, the National Assembly, the Ministry of Defence and many other buildings. His works are an integral part of the European character of present-day Sofia, Ilashchuk added. She said that on the day of Sofia’s proclamation as capital, the aim is to present the life and legacy of Parashchuk, who left a lasting mark and transformed many landmark buildings. He also created works in Ukraine, Poland and Germany. According to the Ukrainian diplomat, Parashchuk was not only a talented sculptor but also a prominent politician, diplomat and public figure. She added that the Ukrainian Embassy is committed to restoring Parashchuk’s rightful place in the history of Bulgarian culture and architecture. Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev also attended the opening. He said he was pleased that the exhibition is launched on this day, allowing Sofia residents to learn more about Parashchuk’s work and life, a man who contributed greatly to the city, yet remains little known among its residents. Terziev expressed hope that more people will become familiar with Parashchuk’s contribution and learn to observe the urban environment more attentively. In the rush of everyday life, people often focus only on the ground beneath their feet, rather than looking up to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding buildings and their history, he said. Culture Tatiana Marinova Emanuel Smarkov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098802-postal-philatelic-issue-marking-125-years-of-electric-transport-in-sofia-validat https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098802-postal-philatelic-issue-marking-125-years-of-electric-transport-in-sofia-validat Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:36:37 +0300 A postal-philatelic issue dedicated to the 125th anniversary of electric transport in Sofia was validated on Friday at a ceremony at the Tram 83 tourist information centre. The event was organized by the Sofia Municipality and the Ministry of Transport and Communications. The ceremony was attended by caretaker Transport Minister Korman Ismailov, Deputy Mayor for Transport and Urban Mobility Viktor Chaushev, and Sofia Mayor Vassil Terziev. Viktor Chaushev said the initiative is part of the programme marking the 125th anniversary of the establishment of electric transport in Sofial, recalling that the anniversary had earlier been commemorated with a retro tram. He noted that electric transport is among the symbols of Sofia and plays a significant role in the city’s development. Chaushev stressed that the Sofia Municipality is working to expand the trolleybus and electric bus network to new boroughs, as well as to modernize rolling stock. According to him, procedures are underway for the procurement of new vehicles and options are being explored to secure the necessary financing. He added that new tram infrastructure was built in 2025, while further investments in different sections of the network are planned in 2026, along with preparations for the purchase of new tramcars. Terziev said the development of urban transport, and electric transport in particular, is among the Municipality’s main priorities. Minister Ismailov highlighted the link between the development of electric transport and postal services, recalling that as early as the beginning of the 20th century letters in Sofia were transported by tram. He noted that postal markings indicating tram transport today have historical value and are of interest to collectors. Ismailov added that as early as 1904, Sofia trams were equipped with post boxes, making them not only a means of transport but also part of the city’s communication system. According to him, this connection continues in philately, from the first stamps featuring trams in the 1960s to contemporary issues reflecting the development of public transport and communications. Culture Veneta Litkova Zhenya Ilcheva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098749-bta-offers-virtual-tour-of-its-renovated-premises-in-sofia https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098749-bta-offers-virtual-tour-of-its-renovated-premises-in-sofia Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0300 The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) is offering a virtual tour of its renovated premises on the day marking 147 years since Sofia was declared capital of Bulgaria. The project allows everyone to explore the building constructed in the 1960s, which is part of Sofia’s landscape and history.  The first results of the modernization plan were presented on the Agency’s 125th anniversary in 2024. "The BTA building is one of the faces of Sofia; we have a clear plan on how to make it even more beautiful and accessible," said BTA Director General Kiril Valchev backthen. In February 2025, BTA’s renovated newsroom came into operation, now featuring an improved work environment and workflow for reporters and editors in the Agency’s building.  The Bulgarian News Agency celebrated its 127th anniversary with modern archives equipped with new shelving systems and precise climate control for storage, in accordance with archival standards in Bulgaria. After many years of effort, BTA has also begun implementing a large-scale project to renovate its building and the surrounding area, called “The World of News - Sofia.” The project includes the construction of a public recreational area in front of the building, featuring a garden where a green map of the world with the continents will be displayed. The screens will feature iconic locations from around the world and, above all, international news. “We have captured the most interesting parts of the BTA building,” said Bozhidar Azmanov, photo editor in BTA’s Pressphoto department and creator of the virtual tour of the renovated spaces in the Agency’s building.  The project to film virtual tours at BTA will continue until November 15, with plans to film all of the Agency’s national press clubs. Culture Dimitrina Solakova Kalina Boyadzhieva https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1098590-sofia-marks-147-years-as-bulgaria-s-capital-with-citywide-celebrations https://www.bta.bg/en/news/bulgaria/1098590-sofia-marks-147-years-as-bulgaria-s-capital-with-citywide-celebrations Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:49:39 +0300 On Friday, Sofia marks the 147th anniversary since it was declared Bulgaria’s capital with a rich festive program. The celebrations include concerts, exhibitions, educational initiatives, and city tours, all open to residents and visitors alike, the organizer, the Sofia Municipality, announced. The festivities began the day before with a concert at the Central Military Club, where Sofia Sinfonietta and soloists from the Filip Kutev National Folk Ensemble presented a special program conducted by Georgi Andreev. The main program continues Friday with performances across the city. At the Crystal Garden, the Sofia Wind Orchestra performs, followed by a concert by the Representative Brass Band of the National Guards Unit of Bulgaria in the square in front of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. Later, the celebrations move to Zaimov Park with a musical procession featuring the wind orchestra of the First English Language School. In the afternoon, the Poduene Brass Band performs in front of the Sofia Theatre, at the same time a concert titled Celebrating Sofia with Music takes place in front of the Nadezhda Municipal Cultural Institute. The evening program continues in the North Park with a performance by the Nadezhda Youth Wind Orchestra. The cultural program begins earlier in the day at the Central Sofia Market Hall, where screenings from the Buildings Tell a Story series will be held. The Muzeiko children’s science discovery centre hosts educational workshops and science demonstrations throughout the day. A special commemorative postage stamp dedicated to milestones in public transport will be validated at the Tram 83 Tourist Information Center. Those interested in the city’s history can join guided walking tours starting from the St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Historical talks will be held at the buildings of Sofia Municipality, offering insight into the city’s architectural heritage. The exhibition program is equally diverse. Crystal Garden hosts the opening of the Writers’ Cafe exhibition, St Nedelya Square presents a photo exhibition titled In the Footsteps of Mykhailo Parashchuk. At the City Garden, the Food and Drink of Bulgarians exhibition will be officially opened. Throughout the day, visitors can also enjoy free admission to the Sofia City Art Gallery and the Regional History Museum of Sofia, along with many other exhibitions across the capital. Additional initiatives add even more vibrancy to the celebrations. A themed photo corner titled Journey Through Time is set up in Crystal Garden. In the city center, students from the National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts, dressed in retro costumes, will hand out postcards featuring historic views of Sofia. Passengers at Sofia Airport will be welcomed with festive souvenirs. The Knyazheska Garden hosts the Sun Fest Sofia festival, featuring attractions and a Ferris wheel. Blending music, history, and contemporary urban initiatives, Sofia celebrates its anniversary as a vibrant and evolving European capital, one that preserves the memory of its past while looking confidently toward the future. Bulgaria Risida Dimitrova https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098565-sofia-launches-capital-day-celebrations-with-sofia-sinfonietta-concert https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098565-sofia-launches-capital-day-celebrations-with-sofia-sinfonietta-concert Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:12:00 +0300 Celebrations marking 147 years since Sofia was declared Bulgaria’s capital began with a concert by Sofia Sinfonietta under conductor Georgi Andreev at the Central Military Club in Sofia on Thursday. The event featured four soloists from the Filip Kutev National Folklore Ensemble, Darina Dzhambazova, Milena Andreeva, Nina Arnaudova and Tanya Nedeva. “For me, it is a huge privilege, honour and pleasure to be here with you and with this incredible orchestra,” Andreev said before the start of the nearly two-hour concert. “This concert will take place with absolutely no involvement of artificial intelligence. On the contrary, there will be entirely natural emotion here,” he added. The composer, performer, conductor and head of the ensemble also appeared three times as a gadulka soloist. Speaking about the instrument, he said it dated back to ancient times and that one theory held that Orpheus had played the gadulka rather than the harp, and that, “In short, cockroaches, sharks, and the gadulka have undergone no evolution for 65 million years, yet they have not disappeared.” “For variety, the programme is built like this, fast, slow, fast, slow, so that we do not fall asleep and also do not get too startled by the alternation of crazy pieces,” Andreev said with a smile. It opened with what he described as a racket called Asparuh. It was followed by Harpii, Kraidunavska, Katerino Mome, Aria na Rodopa, Nepristapnite, Vyatarnat na Yuzhnoto More, Smilyana Mi Se Armasa, Mari Mariyko Karagyozliiko, V Pamet, Pirinska Kitka and Tanets sas Sopi, among others. Solo performances were also given by Ivan Peychev on kaval, Kostadin Atanasov on bagpipe, Denitsa Hristova on gadulka, Georgi Stoychev on tambura and guitar, and Genadiy Rashkov on tupan and tarambuka. “Thank you very much, and I am very happy to see so many of you here.” With these words, Culture Directorate of Sofia Municipality Director Bilyana Genova addressed the audience and invited people to the remaining events in the festive programme on Friday, exhibitions at the Sofia City Art Gallery and Sofia History Museum, concerts at Crystal Garden and in front of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, in Zaimov Park, initiatives for children, open-air galleries, an action by students from the National Academy of Theatre and Film Arts Kr. Sarafov (NATFA), and others. The concert was organized by the Nadezhda Municipal Institute of Culture and the Culture Directorate of Sofia Municipality. Culture Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098563-municipal-council-chairs-hold-general-assembly-in-plovdiv https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098563-municipal-council-chairs-hold-general-assembly-in-plovdiv Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:32:49 +0300 Municipal council chairs from across Bulgaria gathered for the 24th general assembly of the National Association of Municipal Council Chairpersons in the Republic of Bulgaria at the Radisson Hotel Plovdiv on Thursday. Among those attending were Chairperson of the National Association of Municipal Council Chairpersons in the Republic of Bulgaria Ventsislav Spiridonov, Deputy Chair of the Management Board of the National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria Ivo Dimov, Plovdiv Mayor Kostadin Dimitrov and BTA Director General Kiril Valchev. During the opening of the general assembly, Dimov said local government needed clear rules, predictable resources and strong representation. He added that none of these three elements came free and that each had to be secured through a clear position, expertise and constant institutional pressure. Dimov also pointed to key changes that directly affected the work of municipal councils and, in turn, municipal administrations. Valchev presented current statistics on published reports about the work of municipal councils across the country. “We are trying to cover literally every agenda item or group of related items,” he said. He added BTA is making municipal councils in Bulgaria increasingly visible. The agenda of the general assembly included votes on several items, all of which were approved. The assembly adopted the 2025 activity reports of the association’s Management Board and Control Board. It also adopted, with 86 votes, the association’s annual financial report for last year, as well as its 2026 budget. At the proposal of Strazhitsa Municipal Council Chair Iliyan Marinov, who is deputy chair of the association’s Management Board, Svishtov Municipal Council Chair Kristian Kirilov was elected a member of the association’s Management Board. On Friday, the National Association of Municipal Council Chairpersons in the Republic of Bulgaria and the Bulgarian National Audit Office (BNAO) will hold their first joint event, a specialized seminar on obligations to declare property and interests under the BNAO’s new powers. Experts from the BNAO will take part in the forum and will present the latest requirements arising from the institution’s new powers, as well as the main obligations related to declaring property and interests. The seminar is expected to cover both the legal changes and the practical aspects of applying the new rules. The forum will focus on issues of high public importance related to transparency, accountability and compliance with legal requirements by people holding public office. Culture Kaloyan Kirilov https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098548-patriarch-daniil-marks-st-john-of-rila-jubilee-with-tribute-to-bulgarian-spirit https://www.bta.bg/en/news/culture/1098548-patriarch-daniil-marks-st-john-of-rila-jubilee-with-tribute-to-bulgarian-spirit Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:00:57 +0300 Figures such as St. John of Rila and Hieromonk Neofit Rilski are a gift from God and a source of honour and pride for the Bulgarian people, Bulgarian Patriarch and Metropolitan of Sofia Daniil said on Thursday. He was speaking at the opening in Sofia of the first event marking 1,080 years since St. John of Rila’s death and 1,150 years since his birth. The celebration opened with St. John of Rila and Hieromonk Neofit Rilski, Pillars of Bulgarian Spirituality, a themed performance staged at the Bulgarian Army Theatre. The production was written and directed by Silvia Terzieva, with choreography by Associate Professor Georgi Garov of South-West University Neofit Rilski, music by student Georgi Georgiev from the Electronic Technologies in Music programme, costumes by Senior Lecturer Maria Onteva of the same university, and Chief Assistant Professor Rositsa Obreshkova serving as assistant director. “Alongside all other faithful bearers, guardians and exponents of our Orthodox faith, St. John of Rila and Neofit Rilski remain our spiritual guides to this day, even in these spiritually troubled times, when notions of good and evil, life and death, freedom and truth are more blurred than ever,” Daniil said. Actor Andrash Konchaliev, who hosted the presentation, said the production formed part of nationwide commemorative events held with the blessing of the Holy Synod and Daniil. Organizers read aloud a greeting message from President Iliana Iotova, and guests included former President Georgi Parvanov, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences President Evelina Slavcheva, and the mayors of Gotse Delchev and Bansko. Culture Kaloyan Kirilov