To most of us, Russia is a cold, grey, mysterious place. Yet within this vast territory, to the northeast of Moscow, there is a region with a cultural coherence created by those who lived there in the middle ages.
It contains rich ethnic and cultural values derived from a complex interaction of history and geography. The cultural and administrative capital of this region - Vologda Oblast - is Vologda.
Vologda means 'the pure one' in the language of the indigenous Finno-Ugric population.
The Russian North State Folk Music, Song and Dance Ensemble is the first professional folk art troupe in the Vologda region which performs the 'pure' folk culture of northwest Russia. Its mission is to reinterpret the rituals and traditions of these people. The troupe will perform in April as part of the Cultural Presentations highlights from the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.
The show - called Cathedral Hill - is a mixture of Russian folk dance and music, with a cast of 30 dancers, singers and musicians, unique scenery, colourful costumes and diverse theatrical props.
Created under the guidance of art director Louri Tsepelev (considered an honoured and respected figure by folklore experts), the show is a reflection of the life and customs of the Finno-Ugric people, with songs, dance, lace-making and winter games all featured in the production.
