GTU Choreographic Ensemble “Merani” Returns from International Festivals with Grand Prix and Special Prize

The Georgian Technical University Folk Choreographic Ensemble “Merani” has returned from international festivals with major achievements, winning the Grand Prix at the 36th International Folk Dance Festival in Samsun, Turkey, and a Special Prize at the International Folklore Festival in Cyprus. In addition, the university ensemble actively promoted Georgian choreographic art by participating in festival concerts held in several cities across Turkey.

The choreographic ensemble “Merani” is the first creative group from Georgia to participate in the Samsun International Folklore Festival. The event is regularly organized by the Turkish branch of the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Art (CIOFF).

According to Teimuraz Kobakhidze, choreographer and one of the artistic leaders of the university choreographic ensemble, “Merani’s” participation in the festivals in Turkey and Cyprus was highly successful and once again demonstrated the special interest and appreciation that Georgian folk dance enjoys within the international folklore community.

“It is both gratifying and a source of great pride that the performances of “Merani” received such high appreciation – from the festival organizers and professional circles as well as from the audience. The students and members of the ensemble performed each choreographic piece with great responsibility, professionalism, and genuine emotion. Through their performances, they presented the audience with Georgia’s centuries-old history and culture, its freedom-loving spirit and energy, brought to life through complex and refined dance techniques. They introduced them to the beauty of Georgian national costumes.

The audience’s heartfelt ovations were especially meaningful to us, while the jury’s assessment also brought us great joy. Ultimately, “Merani” was awarded the Grand Prix at the Samsun Festival, while at the festival held in Cyprus, the ensemble also received a Special Prize. It is worth noting that television stations in Samsun and Cyprus actively covered the festival events. In addition, “Merani” participated in festival concerts held in several cities, allowing us to present Georgian choreographic art to an international audience on a broader scale.

We are particularly pleased that the new generation of “Merani” was able to represent our country and the Georgian Technical University with dignity. This victory is a great incentive for them to work even harder, develop their skills, and promote Georgian culture on the international stage while continuing their studies.

The administration of the Georgian Technical University has made a significant contribution to this success. We would like to express our special gratitude to the Rector, Academician David Gurgenidze; the Chancellor, Professor Carlo Kopaliani; the President of the University Supervisory Board, Professor Zurab Gudavadze; and the Vice-Rectors, Professors Tamar Tsereteli and Tamar Lominadze, for their constant support. We have extensive opportunities to properly prepare the ensemble members and present high-quality concert programs at international festivals and competitions. The University’s support is both a great responsibility for us and a strong motivation for “Merani” to continue the University’s choreographic traditions with dignity in the future.”

The administration of Georgian Technical University and the Department of Student Services, Culture and Sports have made a significant contribution to this achievement. We would like to express our special gratitude for their continued support to the Rector, Academician David Gurgenidze; the Chancellor, Professor Karlo Kopaliani; the President of the University Supervisory Board, Professor Zurab Gudavadze; and the Vice-Rectors, Professors Tamar Tsereteli and Tamar Lominadze. We have extensive opportunities to provide the ensemble members with comprehensive training and to represent the university at international festivals and competitions with high-quality concert programs. The university’s continued support is both a great responsibility and a strong source of motivation for us, inspiring the Merani Ensemble to uphold and further develop the university’s choreographic traditions with distinction in the years to come.

– Teimuraz Kobakhidze, Head of the Choreographic Ensemble

The Rector of the Georgian Technical University congratulates the ensemble “Merani” on its significant achievement. According to Academician David Gurgenidze, the participation of university creative groups in international festivals and competitions contributes to strengthening intercultural dialogue and promoting Georgian cultural heritage among the youth from different countries.

“The success of our students and creative groups on the international stage is particularly gratifying for the Georgian Technical University. “Merani’s” achievements at international folklore festivals in Turkey and Cyprus once again demonstrate how important it is for young people to have opportunities to showcase their creative abilities within the international cultural community.

We firmly believe that participation in international cultural events plays a vital role in fostering and enhancing the creative potential of both the University and its students. Moreover, such festivals enable young people to gain deeper insight into the cultures of other countries, connect with international audiences, and proudly share their unique national identities. Respect for cultural diversity, the exchange of experience, and cooperation create an environment that brings countries and generations closer together.

It is noteworthy that the University Creative Group “Merani” is the first Georgian choreographic ensemble to participate in the International Folklore Festival in Samsun, Turkey, and achieved significant success on its very first participation. Our ensemble, which has been granted the status of a “People’s Ensemble”, has a 92-year history and has enjoyed great success throughout this period. As always, the future of the University Choreographic Ensemble rests in the capable hands of our talented students.

I would like to thank the new generation of “Merani” for their professionalism and dedication, as well as the ensemble’s artistic directors and choreographers, Teimuraz Kobakhidze and Nino Lazishvili. I congratulate them on this significant achievement and am confident that “Merani” will continue to delight the Georgian Technical University with new victories and international recognition in the future.”

– Academician David Gurgenidze