Votra Magazine: Celebrating Albanian Heritage Through Generations
At the heart of the vibrant Albanian-American community in New York lies Ansambli Folklorik “Rozafati”, the official dance group of the Albanian Catholic Church Our Lady of Shkodra (Zoja e Shkodrës) in Hartsdale, New York. For over 30 years, Rozafati has been a cornerstone of cultural preservation, bringing the beauty of Albanian folk dance to stages across the United States and beyond.
Led by the church’s spiritual guide Fr. Peter Popaj, Rozafati has become more than a dance group; it is a living testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Albanian traditions.
The Legacy of Zoja e Shkodrës Church
Zoja e Shkodrës Church, located in Hartsdale, NY, serves as a cultural and spiritual home for the Albanian diaspora. Under the leadership of Fr. Peter Popaj, the church has been instrumental in uniting the community, offering not only religious guidance but also a platform to celebrate and preserve Albanian heritage.
Rozafati, a part of the church’s “Nënë Tereza Cultural Center”, is one of its most cherished initiatives. Fr. Popaj’s unwavering support has enabled the group to thrive, ensuring that Albanian traditions are passed on to future generations.
Guided by the Talents of Angjelina Nika
At the heart of Rozafati’s success is its choreographer, Angjelina Nika, whose dedication and expertise have shaped the group into a professional ensemble. With decades of experience, Nika has worked tirelessly to ensure that each performance reflects the authenticity and beauty of Albania’s diverse cultural heritage.
From the intricate footwork of Tropoja’s dances to the lyrical elegance of southern Albanian movements, Nika’s choreography captures the essence of Albanian folklore, leaving audiences in awe.
Rozafati at the Albanian Festival in New York
The Albanian Festival in New York, held annually at various community hubs, is one of the largest cultural celebrations in the Albanian-American diaspora. Rozafati consistently takes center stage at this festival, dazzling audiences with their energetic performances.
Their repertoire often includes iconic dances like the Vallja Tropojane, Kënga e Çobanit, and traditional group dances that embody the spirit of Albania’s regions. The festival serves as a platform for cultural unity, bringing together Albanians from across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to celebrate their shared heritage.
For updates on the Albanian Festival in New York, follow Rozafati’s schedule on their social media or visit Zoja e Shkodrës Church for details.
Rozafati at Festivali Folklorik i Gjirokastrës
Rozafati’s influence extends far beyond the United States. The group has performed at the prestigious National Folklore Festival in Gjirokastra, an event that celebrates the very best of Albanian folklore. Held every five years in the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastra, the festival is a grand stage for showcasing the rich diversity of Albania’s cultural heritage.
Known as the “Olympics of Albanian Folklore”, the festival gathers the most talented ensembles from Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and the diaspora. Rozafati’s performances in Gjirokastra reflect the depth and beauty of their traditions, from epic male dances like Vallja e Burrave to southern Albania’s lyrical group dances.
Rozafati at Albanian Independence Festivities in City Hall
Every year, Rozafati proudly participates in the festivities at City Hall, organized by Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj to celebrate Albanian Independence Day. These celebrations, which gather leaders, artists, and community members, are a testament to the strength and unity of the Albanian-American diaspora.
Rozafati’s performances during these events showcase the group’s vibrant energy and dedication to preserving Albania’s heritage. Their participation highlights their role as ambassadors of Albanian culture, ensuring its traditions are celebrated and recognized in public forums.
Performing Across the Albanian Diaspora
In addition to New York and Gjirokastra, Rozafati frequently performs at major events across the Albanian diaspora, including:
• Annual Festivals in Michigan and Boston: These festivals bring together Albanian communities across the U.S., showcasing traditional food, music, and Rozafati’s dazzling performances.
• Albanian Roots Parade in Manhattan: As a regular participant, Rozafati brings the streets of Manhattan alive with traditional costumes and dances, celebrating Albanian Independence Day.
These performances solidify Rozafati’s role as a cultural ambassador, promoting Albania’s rich heritage while fostering unity within the diaspora.
Opportunities for Children of All Ages
Rozafati welcomes children from all ages, providing them with the opportunity to learn and perform traditional Albanian dances. With over 100 members, the group is a melting pot of energy, passion, and dedication, representing the younger generation’s connection to their roots.
Parents interested in registering their children can easily do so online. For more details, visit Rozafati Registration at Zoja e Shkodrës to enroll and join this vibrant cultural family.
Rozafati: Preserving and Promoting Albanian Culture
Supported by the church, the guidance of Fr. Peter Popaj, and the expertise of Angjelina Nika, Rozafati is more than a dance group—it is a cultural movement. Its dancers embody the passion, energy, and pride of the Albanian people, ensuring that the traditions of their ancestors endure in the modern world.