Tirana dance festival returns with a modern twist on Swan Lake

Tirana, September 21, 2024 — For the third consecutive year, Tirana welcomes the "International Festival of Contemporary Dance," gathering international talent under the artistic leadership of celebrated choreographer Angelin Preljocaj. This year’s festival opens with a fresh reimagining of the iconic "Swan Lake," blending classical ballet with modern dance.

"This work emerges from the ashes of the classic 'Swan Lake,' but it’s been entirely reworked. I’ve combined traditional and contemporary ballet—while the core remains, everything is more contemporary, more evolved," Preljocaj explained. "My new creativity always revolves around three key elements: the text, which is the choreography; the pretext, or the theme I’ve chosen; and the context, reflecting the era we live in. I’ve brought this performance as close as possible to nature and our daily lives."

The reinterpreted "Swan Lake" sets the stage for a series of performances across Tirana, from the Opera and Ballet Theater to the National Theater and Skanderbeg Square. Audiences can expect diverse and dynamic programming, ranging from choreographer Mattia Russo’s production of Korsia to the ballet Lorraine.

Producer Nicole Said highlighted the festival’s international and local collaborations, saying, "This year’s program has a strong European focus, with a special emphasis on Albania. Alongside Preljocaj’s premiere, we’ll feature Albanian choreographer Julind Dervishi’s new work Viceversa, and Ermira Goron with her piece Meetings. The festival is a true partnership with Albanian dancers and artists."

Now in its third year, the festival is establishing itself as a cornerstone of Tirana’s cultural calendar, offering young Albanian talent the chance to learn from world-renowned artists like Preljocaj. Running until October 12, the event promises to captivate both local and international audiences.