International Ensemble Balkan from Blairgowrie are folk dancers who have won numerous awards locally and internationally. They practice at the Blairgrowie Recreation Centre.
Balkan founder and choreographer Zoran Lagator has been the driving force behind the group’s success for the past four years. Lagator said that the group is currently preparing to perform at the African Delphic Games in South Africa on 29 April. They will also perform at Varna in Bulgaria from 29 June till 10 July. The Balkan dancers have traveled to countries such as Brazil, Spain, and Montenegro for competitions and festivals.
“We currently practice three times a week which is on a professional level. It takes an immense amount of passion, stamina, and discipline to be a folk dancer. We practice for different audiences around the world,” said Lagator.
There are a number of challenges Lagator says they face as a dance group when it comes to sponsorship. He does not charge his dancers for their participation but only for the rent of the venue where they practice.
“Some of the challenges we face is finding sponsorship for travelling and accommodation expenses for overseas trips. We are proud to represent our country and what we have accomplished in the past years. We would appreciate if people would take an interest in offering us sponsorship to represent South Africa abroad,”explained Lagator.
Balkan dancer Stefan Svicevic said that being part of the group has helped him to be in touch with his culture and traditions.
“The highlight has been touring and representing South Africa abroad. We are a determined group that is hard working and we are one of the only two folk dance groups on the continent. As a group we passionate about showcasing our talent and integrating our many cultures,” explained Svicevic.
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