The National Ballet of Uzbekistan is set to present Lazgi. Dance of Soul and Love at the Großes Festspielhaus in Salzburg, bringing a centuries-old Uzbek dance tradition to one of Europe’s leading cultural venues.
Originating in western Uzbekistan, Lazgi has evolved from a regional ritual dance into one of the country’s most recognisable cultural symbols. Known for its sharp rhythm, expressive gestures and emotional intensity, the dance is inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Organisers describe the Salzburg staging as a major moment of cultural diplomacy, positioning the production as a bridge between Central Asian traditions and European audiences.
The performance blends traditional Lazgi choreography with classical ballet structure. Developed with international creative partners, the production transforms ritual movement into a large-scale theatrical narrative, featuring an original score and contemporary stage design.
Despite its modern staging, the production preserves key visual elements of the original dance, including bright traditional costumes, ornate headpieces and rhythmic accessories that accentuate movement.
In recent years, the Lazgi ballet has toured major venues across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, marking its transformation from folk heritage into an internationally recognised stage work. The Salzburg performance continues that trajectory, placing a centuries-old Uzbek tradition firmly on the global cultural map.
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