Albanian and Kosovar ballet companies share a stage for the first time

For the first time, the ballet companies of Albania and Kosovo will share the same stage, in a collaboration described as a landmark cultural moment for both countries.

The show “Neighbours / From Motherland,” choreographed and conceived by Brigel Gjoka and Rauf “RubberLegz” Yasit, will open the fifth edition of IDFT – International Dance Festival Tirana with a world premiere.

The work brings to the stage a story of shared roots, identity and the relationship between the two countries, marking a historic cultural moment through the language of contemporary dance. Beyond its artistic dimension, the joint production is also a special event for the cultural scenes of Tirana and Pristina.

The premiere takes place on October 3 and 4 at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet in Tirana, and on October 7 the show will be presented at the National Theatre of Kosovo.

The fifth edition of the International Dance Festival Tirana (IDFT) comes under the artistic direction of world-renowned French-Albanian choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, who leads the program with the aim of developing the contemporary dance scene in Albania and positioning Tirana as a center of this art in the region.