Let us define the time and space: since the 16th century, situated in western Slovakia at the foot of the White and Little Carpathians, the Myjava region has nurtured unique folk traditions that have survived to the present day. In the land of scattered settlements known as Kopanice, distinctive dances involving the tossing of female partners originated; these dances are now inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Slovakia. For over fifty years now, the wealth of this heritage has been presented by the KOPANIČIARIK Children’s Folk Ensemble.
Let us specify the time and space: the ensemble was formed in 1972, and since 2006 has been affiliated with the Art School in Myjava. Its repertoire is based on traditional children’s games, songs and dances characteristic of Myjava and the neighbouring regions of western Slovakia. An important feature is the traditional folk costumes in subdued shades of blue, green, black and white, adorned with the famous bobbin lace.
Over the years, the ensemble has won numerous awards at all-Slovakia folk competitions, receiving the Golden Band and special distinctions on many occasions. The ensemble has represented the Slovak folklore at prestigious festivals across Europe, e.g. the Czech Republic, Estonia and Serbia. In 2025 KOPANIČIARIK was awarded the international Grand Prix of Folklore at a festival in Germany.
During the Festival performances, the audience will see traditional dances from the Myjava region – ranging from such ancient forms as starobapská, uklakovaná and hustý, to verbunk and csardas.
Over the years, the ensemble has won numerous awards at all-Slovakia folk competitions, receiving the Golden Band and special distinctions on many occasions. The ensemble has represented the Slovak folklore at prestigious festivals across Europe, e.g. the Czech Republic, Estonia and Serbia. In 2025 KOPANIČIARIK was awarded the international Grand Prix of Folklore at a festival in Germany.
During the Festival performances, the audience will see traditional dances from the Myjava region – ranging from such ancient forms as starobapská, uklakovaná and hustý, to verbunk and csardas.