Discovery Day
of
Azerbaijani Dances
Saturday the 5th of April 2025 in Geneva (CH)
Located at the crossroads of the Silk Road, Azerbaijan has been shaped by Persian, Turkic, and Caucasian influences.
Azerbaijani dances reflect this rich heritage, blending the grace and finesse of the East with the vigor and energy of the Caucasus.
We invite you to explore this fascinating world, where every movement tells a story and carries deep symbolism.
For this special occasion, we are honored to welcome Mr. Firuz Alovsadov, who is coming directly from Baku 🇦🇿 to share his expertise through an engaging and accessible teaching experience for all ages!
During these workshops, he will be joined by Ms. Mariya Khan, an Azerbaijani-born choreographer and dancer, currently based in Geneva, and a recognized specialist in various Caucasian dances.
The workshops will be conducted in Azerbaijani with simultaneous translation into English and French.
They are open to everyone from the age of 6.
SATURDAY 5th OF APRIL 2025
From 10h to 16h
Workshop Program
Guest instructor:
Mister Firuz Alovsadov
More info about the artist.
Workshop 1 from 10h to 12h45:
Introduction to Duo Dances ("Naz Eleme")
More information.
Workshop 2 from 13h15 to 16h:
Introduction to Collectives Dances ("Yalli")
More information.
Location of the workshops:
ADEM Studio (Ateliers d'Ethnomusicologie)
44 Rue des Maraîchers, 1205 Geneva (CH)
View on Map.
Limited spots available. Registration required!
ABOUT THE DANCES
Workshop 1: Discovering Dancing in Duos: Naz Eleme
Naz Eləmə is a traditional Azerbaijani national dance, traditionally performed as a male-female duo.
"Naz Eləmə" is an Azerbaijani expression that translates to "Don't be capricious" or "Don't act coy."
In the context of the dance, this phrase is embodied in the playful interaction between the dancers.
The male dancer strives to impress the woman who has captured his heart through dynamic movements and a commanding presence.
The female dancer, on the other hand, plays with grace and restraint, feigning indifference while subtly showcasing the skill of her partner.
This lively and joyful dance is built upon an engaging contrast: the woman pretends to hesitate, oscillating between teasing rejection of her partner’s advances and discreet admiration for his strength and technical mastery.
Both playful and expressive, this dance is an open invitation to explore body language and the art of interaction with others as we move. With its theatrical and dynamic nature, it offers dancers the joy of playful storytelling, while also helping to develop coordination and self-confidence.
Its engaging and lively nature makes it a perfect experience for all, including children, who are invited to explore this dynamic and expressive dance.
Workshop 2: Discovering Collective Dances: Yalli
Yallı is one of the oldest collective dances in the world, deeply rooted in Azerbaijani cultural heritage.
Its origin dates back to ancient times, as evidenced by the petroglyphs of Gobustan, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Baku, Azerbaijan. These ancient carvings depict human figures dancing hand in hand, resembling the movements of the Yallı.
In this rhythmic and energetic dance, the dancers stand shoulder to shoulder, guided by the Yallibashi, the leader of the group. They perform synchronized movements, symbolizing cohesion and unity. They will gradually form a circle, a universal symbol of harmony and solidarity, at the center of which some dancers step forward to showcase their virtuosity and expressiveness.
Yallı has many variations, reflecting the richness and diversity of Azerbaijani traditions. It is a social and festive dance, where collective strength and individual expression come together in a shared momentum.
Its rhythmic and unifying nature makes it an accessible and captivating experience for beginners, allowing them to quickly immerse themselves in the group's energy.
For children, it is an excellent way to develop coordination, teamwork, and a love for movement, while discovering a vibrant and festive tradition.
About our Guest Teacher
Firuz Alovsadov
Firuz is the choreographer and lead dancer of the renowned RITM troupe in Baku, specializing in traditional Azerbaijani dances.
RITM is dedicated to preserving traditional dances, passing down this ancestral art to new generations, and showcasing it beyond national borders.
It stands as a key reference in Azerbaijan’s contemporary cultural scene.
Firuz actively performs both nationally and internationally, passionately sharing the richness of his heritage through performances and workshops.
His international reach is a testament to the universal appeal and cultural richness of these dances.
