We Were Birds

Translated by::

The performance of the Nagyvárad Dance Ensemble draws from the rich and diverse heritage of Hungarian and Transylvanian Roma folklore, placing special emphasis on the motifs of migration, homelessness, being cast into the world, the search for identity, and community survival.

Roma origin legends, folk tales, and ballads have been adapted, which seek mythical answers and speak in the language of folk poetry about the eternal journey, the feeling of rootlessness, and the identity-shaping power of freedom.

The musical world of the performance is built on live music, featuring traditional Roma instruments (violin, viola, kanna [metal pot], tambura, cimbalom), occasionally enriched with contemporary musical textures.

The performance not only provides an aesthetic experience and conveys the uniquely rich musical and dance culture but also hopefully contributes to a more nuanced understanding and dignified representation of the cultural heritage of the Roma community.

Cast of characters:

Premier: 0000.00.00