Anniversary Group -
1970s/1980s
Performing:
Makedonska Gajda & Pajdushko Oro
Македонска гајда & Пајдушко Оро
The dance to the Makedonska Gajda (or
Macedonian bagpipe) is a staple dance at
all Macedonian festivities. This steady three-
measure dance pattern can be danced at any
pace and beat. Pajdushko oro, otherwise known
as the ‘drunken dance’, is a fast-paced dance
where weight transference and balance are the
main characteristics.
Anniversary Group -
1990s
Performing: Kalajdzisko & Fantazija
Калајџиско & Фантазија
This abridged version of two folkloric dances
from central Macedonia consists of joyful,
rhythmic and dynamic movements. Kalajdzisko
is inspired by the tinsmith craft that was a main
occupation in central Macedonia, particularly in
the town of Veles. The dance characterises the
intrinsic work of tinsmiths within rural life
in Macedonia.
Anniversary Group -
2000s
Performing: Shopsko & Makedonsko Oro
Шопско & Македонско Оро
Originating from northeastern Macedonia this
traditional dance provides a tapestry of folkloric
elements of the Shop region (Kumanovo,
Kratovo, and Kriva Palanka provinces). High
tempo music ensures fast-paced and dynamic
movements that are characteristic of the Shop
style of dancing.
MCAA Ilinden - Today
Current senior groups and junior groups to this
day have ensured that MCAA Ilinden remains
a household name within the Macedonian
community. For this special 50th celebration,
the superb senior groups and the adorable
junior groups have spent the better part of the
year preparing and rehearsing their repertoire to
showcase the richness and vibrancy of folkloric
dancing from the various regions of Macedonia.
Accompanying the Ilinden dancing groups
is the newly formed Ilinden music ensemble
comprised of current dancers playing traditional
Macedonian instruments such as the kaval
(wooden flute), tambura (lute) and
gajda (bagpipe).
17
50 YEARS
MKUD ILINDEN




