Honoring Dijana Momirovic: Celebrating Ballet in Kuwait and Her Fanny Elssler Trophy Triumph

Marianne Berlakovich (Austria) and Dijana Momirovic (Kuwait)

Ballet in Kuwait faces several challenges due to cultural, social, and logistical factors. Here are some key reasons why practicing and performing ballet in Kuwait can be difficult:

1. Cultural and Religious Constraints

• Kuwait is a conservative society with strong Islamic traditions, and certain forms of dance, especially those involving tight costumes and expressive movement, can be seen as inappropriate.

• Public performances of ballet, particularly by female dancers, may be restricted due to modesty norms and cultural sensitivities.

• Mixed-gender performances may also face challenges due to conservative views on gender interaction in public spaces.

2. Limited Infrastructure and Support

• Unlike in Western countries, Kuwait lacks well-established ballet academies, professional companies, and dedicated performance spaces for classical ballet.

• There are few opportunities for advanced training and professional growth, which makes it difficult for dancers to pursue a long-term career in ballet.

3. Educational and Career Barriers

• Dance is not widely integrated into the national education system, meaning that young dancers often have to rely on private studios, which can be expensive.

• There are limited local career opportunities in ballet, forcing serious dancers to move abroad to further their education and professional aspirations.

4. Social Perceptions and Acceptance

• Dance, particularly ballet, is often seen more as a hobby rather than a viable career path in Kuwaiti society.

• Families may discourage children, especially girls, from pursuing ballet due to concerns about future job prospects and societal expectations.

5. Restrictions on Public Entertainment

• Government regulations can make it difficult to organize and promote ballet performances.

• Obtaining permits for performances and adhering to guidelines regarding dress codes and choreography can be a challenge for ballet schools and dancers.

6. Lack of Representation and Role Models

• Since there are no well-known Kuwaiti ballet dancers or local professional companies, there is little visibility and inspiration for aspiring dancers.

• The absence of role models makes it harder for young talents to see ballet as a realistic path.

While ballet does exist in Kuwait through private schools and expatriate communities, it faces significant hurdles due to cultural conservatism, limited infrastructure, and societal perceptions. However, interest in ballet is growing, and some private initiatives continue to nurture a small but dedicated ballet community.

7. Dijana Momorovic’s journey in promoting ballet in Kuwait is a testament to the passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of art.

Her unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent, breaking barriers, and elevating ballet in a region where classical dance faces unique challenges has not only inspired a new generation of dancers but has also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Kuwait.

Winning the prestigious Fanny Elssler Trophy for her social engagement is a well-deserved recognition of her efforts to bring ballet into the hearts and lives of many. Through her dedication, she has not only built a bridge between tradition and artistic expression but has also empowered young dancers to embrace discipline, elegance, and the boundless possibilities of movement.

Dijana’s work reminds us that art transcends limitations—that ballet, with its timeless beauty, can thrive anywhere when guided by a visionary spirit. Her story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a profound belief in the power of dance to unite, uplift, and transform lives. As we celebrate her achievements, we look forward to a future where ballet in Kuwait continues to flourish, carrying forward the legacy of grace she has so passionately cultivated.

#DijanaMomorovic #FannyElsslerTrophy #BalletInKuwait #HonoringExcellence #BalletForAll #DanceInspiration #GraceAndPassion #BalletCulture #ArtWithoutBorders #BalletLegacy #KuwaitArts #BalletCommunity #InspiringGenerations #EleganceInMotion #BreakingBarriers #BalletForChange

Celebrating Ana Pavlovic: A Guiding Light at the European Ballet Grand Prix 2025

Ana Pavlovic@National Theater Belgrade

ANA PAVLOVIC

The 8th edition of the European Ballet Grand Prix in Vienna 2025 is set to be a grand celebration of talent, discipline, and artistry. This prestigious competition and audition not only bring together some of the most promising young dancers but also serves as a gathering of esteemed professionals who shape the future of ballet. Among them, Ana Pavlovic, the Artistic Director of the National Theatre Belgrade, Serbia, stands out as a beacon of inspiration for the competitors and the ballet world.

A former ballerina herself, Ana Pavlovic embodies a unique perspective that few artistic directors can claim. Having graced the stage with the same passion and dedication required of today’s dancers, she brings unparalleled understanding to her role. For a ballet company, having a leader who has lived the art firsthand is an invaluable asset. She knows the struggles, the triumphs, and the endless pursuit of perfection that define a dancer’s journey. Her leadership at the National Theatre Belgrade is a testament to the power of experience in shaping a ballet company’s vision and success.

What truly sets Ana Pavlovic apart is her remarkable ability to balance empathy with the demand for high performance. She nurtures dancers with the wisdom of someone who has walked in their shoes, yet she never wavers in her pursuit of excellence. This rare combination of understanding and rigor is what transforms good dancers into great artists. In a world where artistic directors often focus solely on results, Ana’s approach ensures that dancers not only meet technical standards but also grow as expressive and emotionally connected performers.

Beyond her expertise, Ana Pavlovic exemplifies the truth that learning never stops—even for directors. Her presence at the European Ballet Grand Prix is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of ballet. She continuously seeks to refine her vision, absorb new influences, and contribute to the art form’s progress. By engaging with young talents, fellow directors, and industry professionals, she reinforces the idea that true mastery is an ongoing journey.

The European Ballet Grand Prix 2025 is privileged to have Ana Pavlovic as part of this year’s event. Her insight, experience, and unwavering commitment to the art of ballet enrich the competition in immeasurable ways. Her presence not only honors the competitors but also serves as a reminder that ballet is a living, breathing art form—one that thrives under the guidance of those who truly understand its essence.

As we celebrate this year’s edition of the European Ballet Grand Prix, we acknowledge the significance of Ana Pavlovic’s participation and the inspiration she provides to dancers and artistic leaders alike. Her journey, her leadership, and her dedication to both the art and the artists make her a figure worth honoring in the world of ballet.

#AnaPavlovic #Ballet #EuropeanBalletGrandPrix #BalletCompetition #BalletAudition #NationalTheatreBelgrade #BalletDirector #DanceArtistry #BalletLife #BalletMastery #BalletLovers #ViennaBallet #BalletInspiration #DanceExcellence #BalletCommunity #SimonaNojaNebyla #FrancescoGrillo

Inspired by Plato: Patterns, Eternal Truth, and Boris Nebyla’s Ballet Vision

Ballet Class of Boris Nebyla, a pathway toward an ultimate artistic and aesthetic truth

The connection between ballet and philosophy might not seem obvious at first, but when viewed through the lens of Plato’s Theory of Forms, it becomes clear that both disciplines share a fundamental pursuit: the quest for an ideal truth beyond physical imperfections. Boris Nebyla, a renowned ballet master, embodies this vision in his teaching, where movements are not just technical exercises but a pathway toward an ultimate artistic and aesthetic truth.

Plato’s Forms and the Ideal Ballet Technique

Plato believed that everything in the material world is a mere imperfect copy of a higher, unchanging reality of Forms. Just as a physical chair is an incomplete manifestation of the perfect, immaterial Form of "chairness," every ballet movement performed in class is a reflection of an ideal execution that exists beyond any single dancer’s ability.

Nebyla’s ballet instruction mirrors this idea: he does not teach mere mechanical steps but guides dancers toward a perfect, yet unreachable essence of movement. The pirouette, the arabesque, the grand jeté—each of these exists in its purest form beyond any single performance, and the dancer’s task is to strive toward that perfection.

The Role of the Ballet Master: A Philosopher in Dance

In Plato’s philosophy, the role of the philosopher is to lead others toward the truth—to help them see beyond shadows and illusions. Similarly, Boris Nebyla acts as a philosophical guide in ballet, directing his students beyond superficial execution toward a deeper understanding of the patterns and principles underlying classical dance. Through rigorous correction, repetition, and refinement, he encourages dancers to go beyond muscle memory and connect with the essence of movement itself.

Patterns as the Key to Ultimate Truth

Plato taught that knowledge comes from recognizing eternal patterns that structure reality. Ballet, too, is built on a precise system of geometric and rhythmic patterns. From the turnout of the feet to the symmetrical structure of a choreographic sequence, ballet relies on a set of fundamental principles that, when understood and embodied, elevate mere movement into artistic truth.

In Nebyla’s ballet class, dancers do not simply mimic steps—they learn to recognize and internalize these patterns, refining their movements toward a greater harmony that mirrors Plato’s idea of universal beauty and order. The dancer who achieves the closest approximation of these patterns experiences a moment of transcendence, where physicality and philosophy merge.

The Dance of Forms: Ballet as a Philosophical Journey

In Plato’s famous Allegory of the Cave, prisoners mistake shadows for reality until they are guided toward the light of true knowledge. Likewise, a beginner in ballet may focus on superficial steps, but under the guidance of a master like Nebyla, they come to see beyond individual movements to the deeper structures of classical technique. The ultimate goal is not just technical mastery, but the pursuit of an artistic ideal that is as timeless as Plato’s Forms.

Thus, Boris Nebyla’s vision for ballet is more than just a method of teaching—it is a philosophical journey. In every class, dancers engage in a pursuit akin to the philosopher’s quest: reaching beyond the physical world, guided by patterns, discipline, and an eternal striving toward beauty. In this way, ballet becomes not just an art, but a profound reflection of Plato’s ultimate truth.

#borisnebyla #francescogrillo #ebgp #simonanojanebyla

Join us for an exclusive interview with Simona Noja-Nebyla, Founder and Director of EBGP Vienna, and her special guest, Hana Kosaki, CEO of Unblanché, Tokyo, Japan!

Exclusive interview

Welcome to the electrifying world of ballet competition and audition! We are here at the EBGP, one of the prestigious ballet competitions in Europe, where young and talented dancers from around the globe come to showcase their artistry, technique, and passion. But beyond the stunning pirouettes and breathtaking leaps, what really goes on behind the scenes? What does it take to compete at this level?

Today, we go beyond the stage and come closer to the “why” competitions are cherished. In this exclusive interview Simona Noja-Nebyla, Founder and Director of EBGP Vienna sits down with Hana Kosaki, CEO of Unblanché, Tokyo, Japan, juror at the 8th edition of the EBGP Competition and Audition in Vienna to discuss the evolving landscape of ballet competitions, the importance of an open mindset, and the future of young dancers in the industry.

Hana Kosaki, a ballet teacher and mentor, believes that competitions help with self-evaluation by allowing dancers to test their abilities in front of different audiences. In Japan, ballet training is offered exclusively through private schools. Unlike European ballet schools, they do not have standardized exams. As a result, “going out of their bubble”, and undergoing an evaluation provides significant benefits, helping dancers assess their progress and refine their skills.

touch their hearts when they perform

Also, having the opportunity to perform on stage more than just once a year, as is common in Japan, is important for students. It allows them to truly "touch their hearts when they perform."

testing what works and what doesn’t is essential to becoming a better dancer

She explains, "It is important to step outside your own country because different cultures, audiences, and reactions shape your growth. You must understand that your dance cannot always remain the same. Testing what works and what doesn’t is essential to becoming a better dancer."

they become so open-minded… it is life-changing for them

It is surprising how the overall experience of a competition— including flights, travel, and everything involved—has such a strong impact on them. They become more open-minded, and in the end, I have noticed that it is a truly life-changing experience.

It has to be the full package to become a good dancer

All of this broadens their horizons, not only as ballet dancers but also as human beings—something we sometimes forget. "IIt has to be the full package to become a good dancer." In the end, it’s not just about technique but about the heart you put into it, and that is what truly touches the audience, Hana believes.

the reasons why classical ballets were created the way they were

When asked if she could change something in the ballet world, Hana expresses her strong belief in tradition and the reasons why classical ballets were created the way they were. However, she would love to create more work opportunities for ballet dancers, especially in Japan.

What makes EBGP different than other competitions?

Beyond the numerous opportunities to be seen, earn scholarships, and receive awards, what truly matters is your belief in the art form—your deep appreciation for ballet as something more than mere spectacle, but as a profound expression of artistry and passion.

Hana Kosaki: "I believe EBGP stands for a competition that truly values and celebrates the art of ballet!"

Thank you!

Key Themes from the Interview of Hana Kosaki at EBGP 2025

1. The Significance of Ballet Competitions

   • Competitions provide young dancers with a platform to showcase their artistry, technique, and passion.

   • Beyond the performances, competitions offer valuable experiences that shape dancers’ growth.

2. Self-Evaluation and Growth Through Competition

   • Hana Kosaki emphasizes the importance of competition in self-assessment.

   • In Japan, without standardized exams in ballet schools, international competitions serve as key evaluation opportunities.

3. Stepping Beyond Comfort Zones

   • Exposure to different cultures, audiences, and feedback is crucial for development.

   • Testing what works and what doesn’t helps dancers refine their skills and artistic expression.

4. The Transformative Power of the Experience

   • Travel, performances, and the competitive environment open dancers' minds.

   • Many find the experience life-changing, broadening their perspectives beyond ballet.

5. The Importance of Stage Experience

   • Performing more than once a year is essential for artistic and emotional growth.

   • True artistry comes from touching hearts through performance.

6. The Full Package: Technique and Emotion

   • Becoming a great dancer requires more than technical skills—it demands emotional depth.

   • The connection between dancer and audience is what truly makes a performance memorable.

7. Honoring Tradition While Expanding Opportunities

   • Hana Kosaki believes in the importance of preserving classical ballet’s traditions.

   • She advocates for creating more work opportunities for ballet dancers, particularly in Japan.

8. What Sets EBGP Apart?

   • EBGP provides not just recognition but a space for genuine artistic appreciation.

   • It is a competition that values ballet as an art form, not just a spectacle.

9. A Motto for EBGP

   • "I believe EBGP stands for a competition that truly values and celebrates the art of ballet!" – Hana Kosaki.

Ballet X: How Do You Go From Good to Great

As a former principal dancer, director, and researcher, I have dedicated my career to celebrating the profound impact of ballet on individuals and communities. Few organizations embody this mission more vividly than BalletX, whose innovative approach has been rightfully celebrated by Forbes. Their commitment to fundraising, gratitude, and giving back underscores the transformative power of dance.

A Vision Rooted in Gratitude

BalletX, under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Christine Cox, demonstrates a profound sense of gratitude toward its community and supporters. This gratitude manifests in their ambitious and creative productions, which bridge tradition and innovation. BalletX also stands out for its honesty and transparency in defending values of excellence, integrity, and gratitude at both the personal and community levels.

Dance is not merely an art form; it is an expression of shared human experience and a way to give back to the world. Forbes has highlighted BalletX’s dedication to connecting with audiences through authentic storytelling, a testament to their appreciation of the role that art plays in society.

Fundraising: Building a Sustainable Future

The sustainability of any arts organization lies in its ability to innovate both on and off the stage. BalletX excels in this domain. As Forbes reports, their partnerships with corporate giants like Tesla and Adobe have provided a stable financial foundation. These collaborations, rooted in mutual respect and shared values, ensure that the company can offer competitive salaries to its artists while maintaining creative freedom.

Their digital platform, BalletX+, launched during the pandemic, exemplifies forward-thinking fundraising. With over 50,000 subscribers, it has created an additional revenue stream while making their art accessible to global audiences. This pioneering approach inspires hope for a resilient future in the performing arts.

The Power of Dance to Give Back

BalletX’s ethos extends beyond the stage, as their "Dance Forward" initiative demonstrates. By offering free workshops, scholarships, and mentorship programs, they provide opportunities to individuals who might otherwise never experience the transformative power of dance. Forbes has praised this commitment to inclusivity, noting the profound impact it has on underserved communities.

Honesty and transparency are at the heart of these initiatives. BalletX ensures that every step they take reflects their commitment to defending and promoting the values of integrity, gratitude, and excellence. These efforts showcase the power of dance not only as an art form but as a force for societal good.

Dance has the power to heal, unite, and inspire. BalletX exemplifies this truth, using its platform to foster social change and ensure that art remains a force for good.

Lessons for the Arts World

The success of BalletX underscores the importance of gratitude as a driving force in the arts. Their ability to balance financial sustainability with a genuine commitment to community engagement offers a model for other organizations. Forbes’ recognition of their efforts reminds us all of the immense potential of dance to make a difference.

For those in the dance world, the lesson is clear: prioritize gratitude, invest in creative fundraising, and give back to the communities that support you. Ballet, as we often say, is not just about movement—it is about connection.

Looking Ahead

As we all continue our advocacy for dance, I find immense inspiration in BalletX’s journey. Their story, as chronicled by Forbes, reflects a future where ballet is not only preserved but transformed into an accessible, impactful, and sustainable art form.

The work of BalletX reminds us of the enduring relevance of dance in our lives. The challenge for us all is to embody their spirit of gratitude, innovate with purpose, and ensure that dance remains a powerful force for good in the world.

FORBES (Interview with the Artistic Director Christine Cox)

In the Loving Memory of Peter Rapos

In Loving Memory of Uncle Peter Rapos
On What Would Have Been His 93rd Birthday

Today, we pause to remember and celebrate the life of our beloved Uncle Peter Rapos, who would have turned 93 years old. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit continues to live on in our hearts, in the stories we tell, and in the countless cherished memories he left behind.

Uncle Peter was more than just an uncle; he was a source of wisdom, humor, and unwavering love. Whether it was his kind smile that brightened the room, his stories that connected generations, or his quiet strength that provided comfort, he made each of us feel special and seen.

His life was a testament to perseverance, compassion, and joy. He taught us the value of hard work, the importance of arts in our lives, and the beauty of life’s simple moments. Whether it was sitting around the table sharing meals, watching him share his ballet knowledge, or hearing his laughter echo during a family gathering, Uncle Peter had a way of making every moment meaningful.

As we reflect on his 93rd birthday, let us honor him by carrying forward the lessons he taught us: to be kind, to cherish beauty, and to live with purpose and gratitude. Though we miss him deeply, his legacy continues in every act of kindness, in every shared laugh, and in the bonds that keep us together.

Uncle Peter, today we celebrate you with love, remembrance, and gratitude. Your presence may be missed, but your love and light remain eternal. We raise a glass to you, dear Uncle, and smile as we think of you watching over us, forever in our hearts.

With all our love and fondest memories,
Your Family

Elevating Grace: The EBGP Journey to Vienna

Preparing for the International Ballet Competition
The European Ballet Grand Prix in Vienna

Elevating Grace

Dear Aspiring Ballet Dancer,

The road to success is paved with hard work, discipline, and passion—and you have already shown these qualities by setting your sights on the prestigious European Ballet Grand Prix in Vienna. This incredible competition is not only a chance to showcase your artistry but also a vital audition where the world’s stage opens up to those who dare to dream big. It is a remarkable opportunity to present your talent, dedication, and unique style before an audience that includes some of the most influential figures in ballet.

With the right preparation, you’ll not only compete but also thrive, leaving a lasting impression on judges, coaches, and fellow artists. This guide is designed to help you prepare for every aspect of the competition and audition process, ensuring you are mentally, physically, and artistically ready to shine on this international platform.

Preparing for the Competition and Q&A Session

This edition of the EBGP competition often includes a unique Q&A session with the jury—an invaluable chance to learn from industry experts, gain feedback, and deepen your understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of professional ballet. Your preparation should also include thoughtful questions for the jury that showcase your curiosity, respect for their expertise, and desire to grow as an artist.

Here’s a comprehensive preparation guide that also incorporates strategies for excelling in the Q&A session:

1. Set Clear Goals

• Define what you aim to achieve in this competition and audition: whether it’s mastering a technically demanding variation, standing out in the audition process, or making connections with key professionals.

• Write these goals down and remind yourself of them daily. Each practice session should bring you closer to them.

2. Perfect Your Technique

• Dedicate focused time to polishing your selected variations or audition routines. Pay attention to precision, timing, and fluidity.

• Work closely with your coach to refine even the smallest details. Nuances often set apart a strong audition performance from the rest.

• Schedule daily drills for core techniques like pirouettes, jumps, and extensions to ensure you are technically sharp.

3. Develop Emotional Expression

• Ballet and dance is not just about technique; it’s about storytelling. Dive deep into the narrative of your chosen piece and bring out its essence. Become the character you play!

• Practice emoting through movement—every gesture, glance, and line should communicate with your audience and the judges.

• Remember, the judges are looking for performers who can convey passion and connect emotionally with their work.

4. Prioritize Physical Conditioning

• Cross-training enhances strength, flexibility, and stamina. To build core strength and prevent injuries, consider the Alexander Technique, Body-Mind Centering, Girokinesis, Pilates, yoga, etc.

• Don’t underestimate the importance of rest and recovery—your body needs time to repair and recharge.

• Maintain a balanced diet to fuel your rigorous training regimen. Proper nutrition supports peak performance during auditions and competitions.

5. Perfect Your Costume and Presentation

• Choose costumes that complement your routine and fit the professional tone of an audition and competition setting. Attention to detail shows your readiness and professionalism.

• Test your costume during rehearsals to ensure comfort, fit, and freedom of movement under performance conditions.

6. Mental Preparation is Key

• Cultivate a positive mindset. Visualization techniques can help you imagine yourself succeeding during both the competition and audition stages.

• Practice mindfulness or meditation to calm your nerves and channel your focus.

• Embrace critiques and challenges as stepping stones toward greatness. Each rehearsal is an opportunity to improve.

7. Research the Competition and Prepare Questions for the Jury

• Familiarize yourself with the format, judging criteria, and expectations of the EBGP in Vienna.

• Study previous competitors and winners to understand what made them stand out.

• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the jury during the Q&A session. These questions can help you gain insight into the competition and your potential career path.

Suggested Questions for the Jury

1. Technique & Performance:

   • What qualities do you look for in a winning performance?

   • How do you balance technical precision with artistic expression in your evaluations?

   • Can you share an example of a dancer whose performance stood out and why?

2. Feedback for Growth:

   • What is one piece of advice you would give to dancers who want to grow as performers?

   • If a dancer doesn’t win a prize, what key lessons should they take away from the competition?

3. Career Development:

   • What do you believe is the most critical skill or quality for a dancer entering the professional world?

   • How important are competitions like EBGP for a dancer’s career trajectory?

4. Cultural Connection:

   • How can dancers draw inspiration from Vienna’s rich artistic heritage and incorporate it into their performances?

5. Overcoming Challenges:

   • What are common mistakes dancers make during auditions, and how can we avoid them?

   • How can dancers overcome stage fright or performance anxiety in high-pressure settings?

8. Schedule Regular Mock Performances

• Perform your routine in front of friends, family, or mentors to simulate both the competition and audition conditions.

• Accept feedback with an open mind and incorporate constructive criticism into your practice.

9. Take Care of Your Well-Being

• The journey to Vienna is as much about the process as it is about the performance. Celebrate milestones, no matter how small.

• Surround yourself with a supportive community that uplifts you and shares in your dreams.

10. Remember Why You Dance

• At the heart of all your preparation, never lose sight of the joy that brought you to ballet. Dance with your heart, let your soul shine, and connect with the music and the audience.

• Auditions and competitions are not just tests; they are opportunities to share your passion and tell your story.

This competition and audition are a testament to your years of dedication, discipline, and passion. It is a stage that will challenge you, transform you, and inspire you to reach new heights. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Each step, leap, and pirouette brings you closer to your dream.

Vienna awaits your artistry, grace, and brilliance. Believe in yourself—you have what it takes to captivate the world.

With all my admiration and best wishes,

Simona Noja-Nebyla (former principal dancer, director, and dance researcher)

Ion NOJA: Filatelia - deschidere spre lume

RAFTUL CU CĂRŢI 128 „ORAȘUL” revistă de cultură urbană | ANUL XIX (2024), Nr. 1-2 (63-64)

Ion NOJA Filatelia - deschidere spre lume

Apărută recent la Editura Școala Ardeleană, sub coordonarea lui Ioan Constantinescu, lucrarea Filatelia Clujeană.

Istorie, pasiune, valoare, dedicată filateliei clujene de la începuturi și până în prezent, învederează sub multiple aspecte un volum de excepţie pentru scrierile de acest fel apărute în cultura noastră. Înainte de toate, cartea este expresia unei pasiuni materializate în fapte, ce presupune, în egală măsură, documentare, cunoaștere, consecvenţă, evaluări adecvate și, nu în ultimul rând, un efort financiar predictibil pe timp îndelungat; adică tot ce trebuie să aibă un colecţionar de produse filatelice pentru a se ridica la standardele de natură să viabilizeze această preocupare. În același timp, cartea reconfirmă un adevăr bine-cunoscut, dar insuficient luat ca argument pentru activitatea de perspectivă: faptul că filatelia este și rămâne un câmp al pasiunii cultivate generaţii la rând; un fenomen cu atractivă deschidere socială. Iar filatelia clujeană atestă pe deplin această realitate. Aici, aspiraţia spre frumos a atras oameni din toate categoriile socio-profesionale, de toate vârstele și credinţele. Este surprinzător numărul mare de personalităţi arhicunoscute pe plan local și naţional prezente în mod constant la toate activităţile filatelice. Academicieni, savanţi, cadre universitare, economiști, medici, juriști, oameni din domeniul literaturii, artei și culturii au cultivat cu ardoare și rezultate remarcabile această pasiune socializantă, generatoare de bună colegialitate. Multe dintre activităţile filatelice de amploare – expoziţii, concursuri, conferinţe, colaborări cu organizaţii similare din ţară și străinătate – au rămas în memoria celor prezenţi și datorită prestigiului personal cu care aceste personalităţi s-au implicat nemijlocit în derularea evenimentelor. Cartea dovedește că mișcarea filatelică clujeană a beneficiat, încă de la începuturile sale, de oameni care mereu au întrunit și pus în practica de organizare, valorizare și promovare a activităţilor filatelice pasiune, pricepere și prestigiu. Iar acest potenţial s-a regăsit în cuprinderea, conţinutul și finalitatea acţiunilor organizate, contribuind astfel într-o măsură unanim apreciată la dezvoltarea filateliei românești în general. Retrospectiva filatelică oferită de cartea recent apărută dovedește, o dată în plus, că Asociaţia clujeană a fost mereu caracterizată, în cei peste o sută de ani de existenţă, de rigoarea colecţionarului atent la amănuntele ce dau farmec și inedite surprize pasiunii sale. Semnificativă și mereu prioritară a fost atenţia acordată în timp respectării tradiţiei. Acest stil de lucru a fost definitoriu pentru președinţii Asociaţiei, din rândul cărora Ioan Constantinescu, coordonatorul lucrării, s-a remarcat deopotrivă prin durata activităţii, amploarea și calitatea iniţiativelor luate. Fiecare etapă istorică a devenirii spre România de astăzi se reflectă cu fidelitate și în mișcarea noastră filatelică. Și asta în condiţiile în care filatelia clujeană continuă să fie recunoscută pe plan intern și extern pentru spiritul inovator pe care l-a impregnat preocupărilor sale. Prin mijloacele sale specifice, individuale și de grup – colecţii, expoziţii, schimburi de experienţă, concursuri – filatelia clujeană a întreţinut o stare afectivă benefică în preajma evenimentelor judeţene și naţionale, cum au fost cele privitoare la: Istoria naţională evocată prin acţiuni filatelice clujene, Napoca-Cluj 1850, Independenţa României, Medici români în Războiul de Independenţă, Unirea cea Mare și filatelia etc. Este bine știut faptul că numai pasiunile puternice, constante și de durată au șanse să devină tradiţii pentru o colectivitate. Numai după ce și-au dovedit importanţa lor ca valori identitare pentru cei care le practică, obiceiurile ajung dorite, asumate și cultivate de urmași. Astăzi, vorbind de tradiţiile filateliei clujene nu facem decât să reafirmăm convingerea că această activitate are un trecut bine conturat în contextul social, că este în continuare generatoare de pasiune, pentru toate categoriile socio-profesionale și de vârstă, reușind să-și păstreze locul ei distinct și inepuizabil ca sursă de satisfacţie pentru cei care o cultivă. Este o realitate atestată convingător de conţinutul acestei cărţi. Din paginile ei se desprind fapte autentice de cultură, rezultate în urma unor eforturi organizatorice exemplare și ale unor concepţii legate nemijlocit de viaţa reală. O bună parte din manifestările filatelice au fost centrate, de-a lungul anilor, pe prezentarea marilor noastre personalităţi, fie ele istorice – Ștefan cel Mare, Mihai Viteazul, Iancu de Hunedoara; din domeniul știinţei și tehnicii – Aurel Vlaicu, Traian Vuia, Henri Coandă; din literatura clasică – Eminescu, Creangă, Macedonski, Rebreanu; din domeniul picturii – Nicolae Grigorescu; sculpturii – Constantin Brâncuși; sau din muzică: George Enescu, Ciprian Porumbescu. De un interes larg din partea membrilor Asociaţiei și a publicului s-au bucurat acţiunile prin care filatelia clujeană s-a integrat și armonizat cu tradiţiile culturale locale. Clujul universitar este un câmp vast, fertil și binecuvântat pentru roadele sale în domeniul cunoașterii teoretice și practice, al știinţei, învăţământului, culturii și artei. Motiv pentru care expoziţii precum cele organizate sub egida ideii tematice Studentfila au fost și au rămas însemne de pasiune durabilă în viaţa clujenilor. La fel se petrec lucrurile cu Toamna muzicală, „transpusă” filatelic cu grijă similară efortului și talentului necesare obţinerii bijuteriilor sonore caracteristice evenimentului, sau cu expoziţiile prin care imaginea filatelică este pusă în slujba protecţiei mediului și naturii. Ca să respecte tradiţia și standardele de calitate, cartea de referinţă trebuia să ofere o mostră convingătoare de bun gust editorial și să dea cititorilor șansa unui exerciţiu viabil de cultură vizuală. O face cu prisosinţă, adăugând valoare unui patrimoniu filatelic bogat, divers și mereu deschis primenirii.

Interviu cu Simona Noja-Nebyla în revista Orașul, 2024

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