Dancers in the Night | Carpathian Mountains, Ukraine
Carpathian Mountains, the Ukraine. January 7, after Christmas morning service, the Catholic priest blesses the carders. The great rite has begun. Yesterday's doctors, managers, sales assistants, engineers are today's "God's envoys". They will visit every house and praise the Nativity of Christ.
The choir of twelve men dressed in the national Gutsul costumes, holding axes get together in a circle. In the middle of each circle is a violinist. Choirs are formed long beforehand. Every participant should conform his work schedule and carols. When he agrees to participate, there is no way back. He should participate to the very end of the ceremony which usually takes twelve days. Every choir has it's own district. They should visit every house. Otherwise the hosts will be offended.
Carolers blow their trumpets to let people know that they herarc coming. Every house prepares to this minute during the whole year. When the hosts hear the trumpets, they begin to lay the table. They should receive carolers with all hospitality, because carolers bring happiness and holidays to their house.
Photo documentary/ Photo journal by Russian photographer Igor Sherman (Hits: 469205)
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