TIRANA, May 22 /ATA/ – The National Theater of Opera and Ballet of Albania on Friday hosted a solemn event marking the 20th anniversary of the Day of Vyshyvanka – a holiday that has long been a symbol of Ukrainian identity, dignity and the connection of generations, celebrating cultural identity, heritage and traditional craftsmanship.
At the centre of the event was the exhibition “Ukrainian Vyshyvanka, Albanian Xhubleta: Traditions Through Time,” featuring a family collection by Ukrainian folk art master Darina Stasiuk alongside the Albanian xhubleta, bell-shaped folk skirt worn by women in northern Albania, presented by Albanian artisan Edlira Sulaj at the exhibition of traditional costumes “Ukrainian embroidery.”
The exhibition highlighted cultural dialogue between Ukraine and Albania and underscored the importance of preserving national traditions and spiritual heritage. This dialogue of cultures showed once again just how close nations can be through respect for their history, traditions, and human memory.
Among those attending the ceremony were Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja, parliament deputy speaker Klodiana Spahiu, representatives of the diplomatic corps, Albanian institutions, international organisations, academia, religious communities, civil society and members of the Ukrainian community in Albania.
Organisers expressed gratitude to Stasiuk and Sulaj for their contribution to promoting traditional dress and strengthening cultural diplomacy through art and heritage.
The artistic programme featured performances by singer Albana Bajraktari and the youth dance ensemble of the National Theatre under the direction of Sokol Marsi.
The event conveyed a message that traditions represent not only a link to the past, but also a bridge of communication, respect and solidarity between peoples in the modern world.
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