Paper short abstract:

In Slovenia's only region known for the circle dance kolo, the Bela Krajina, a shift can be observed in the presentation of traditions by the local folklore ensemble since the socio-political changes of 30 years ago: from an emphasis on the circle dance kolo to couple round dances in recent time.

Paper long abstract:

The folk dance and music traditions of the peripheral part of present-day Slovenia, the Bela Krajina region, have been essential for creating identities by Slovenes over the last 100 years in expressive culture and the activities of folklore groups and ensembles. In the socialist period, the tradition of kolo was particularly prominent, as it linked Slovenes with other South Slavic nations of the former common state, where kolo was and still is the predominant traditional dance form (in contrast to Slovenia, where this position is held by the couple dance).

After the socio-political changes occurring 30 years ago, there was a reconsideration of the tradition, which is reinterpreted on stage especially by the folklore ensembles from Bela Krajina. This has led to a focus on dance traditions linking Bela Krajina more closely to the traditional dance culture of the central Slovenian area. Instead of circle dancing the kolo, folklore ensembles have been stated to emphasize the tradition of round dances now.

The presentation is based on an analysis of the activities of the Bela Krajina folklore ensemble, its conceptual changes, and its efforts to reinterpret the regional tradition. Nevertheless, the images of the Bela Krajina folk music and dance tradition, especially outside the region, often remain stereotypical and are perpetuated by ever-new re-reproductions.