The Beloyarsk Ethno-cultural Centre of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra of Russia will present the folklore programme "Bear Games" in Vitebsk during the City Day celebrations, as reported to BELTA by the Vitebsk City Executive Committee.
The Beloyarsk Ethno-cultural Centre of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Yugra of Russia will present the folklore programme "Bear Games" in Vitebsk during the City Day celebrations, as reported to BELTA by the Vitebsk City Executive Committee.
The ritual of the Khanty people will be performed by the Birch Bark Mask Theatre. The performance can be seen on 23 and 24 June on Pushkin Street. The programme also includes masterclasses on making utensils from deer leather, wood, birch bark, and fur, as well as a game programme for adults and children called "Yugra Amusements". Russian guests will present games and toys, including puzzles made of wood, bone, leather, and ropes, as well as Khanty chess.
The "Bear Games" preserve a unique set of ritual actions, attributes, and a rich folklore repertoire, which in a complex synthetic unity reflect the traditional worldview of the Khanty people. Through pantomime scenes, songs, and dances of various genres, ethical and social norms are demonstrated (how to behave in society, how to treat nature, etc.). Historically, the Bear Games are a ritual performed upon the successful hunt of a bear. The celebration lasted from four to five days and was accompanied by narrative songs.
This year, the city on the Dvina River celebrates its 1043rd anniversary. The festivities will last for several days starting from Friday. As previously reported, on 23 June, the monumental decorative sculptures "Old Man Khottabych" and "Little Fish" will be unveiled (their installation has begun). Another gift to the citizens will be the opening of trolleybus route No. 11: Medtsentr microdistrict - P. Brovki St. - V. Internatsionalistov St. - Chernyakhovsky Ave. - Lenin St. - Zamkovaya St. - Kirova St. - Railway Station and back. The total length of the route is 11.6 km, of which 3.4 km are newly introduced sections in new housing areas. The first day of the celebrations will conclude with the festive programme "Happy Birthday, Beloved City!" at the Summer Amphitheatre. Here, certificates will be awarded, laureates of the "Vitebsk Citizen of the Year" award and other distinguished individuals will be honoured, keys to new apartments will be presented, and a concert featuring creative groups from Vitebsk and popular pop artists will take place.