In celebration of creativity, skill and performing arts, the first PAF was held in Herceg Novi

The first Performing Arts Festival was held over the weekend in Herceg Novi and already with its premiere edition proved that it is much more than a festival. Established as a platform to exchange ideas, support young talents and celebrate creativity, it brought together over 700 artists from the region who showed incredible talent through various art forms.

At the end of the day-long program, a spectacular "Star night" was organized, during which the best choreographies selected for the grand finale were once again presented.

Opening the PAF, the President of the Municipality of Herceg Novi, Stevan Katic, pointed out that in the city of culture with traditional festivals, they are particularly proud of their support for new projects dedicated to children and young people.

"We supported the idea because we believe that we are opening a new space for the development of culture, creativity and art. We know that this kind of manifestation will be an additional motivation for young people to get involved in new cultural trends, and that is the biggest goal for all of us. This is also an opportunity for them to exchange experiences, learn from each other, and establish friendships. Together, we will contribute to strengthening the cultural identity of Herceg Novi, a city that is now officially becoming one of the dance centers of the region, but also give a significant impetus to the development of performing arts that will further shape generations", said President Katic, wishing the participants success in the competition and thanking the organizers for preparing the demanding dance event.

The creator of PAF and organizer, Antonija Novoselac, director of the Cultural and Sports Center DiANo, pointed out that the festival will strive to be and remain a platform that will serve all participants, amateurs and professionals, as an incentive for upgrading by offering children and young people the right guidelines in developing their affinities and qualities in the field of performing arts.

The festival was monitored by the expert jury: Ivana Ilić (president), Tamara Vujošević Mandić, Tanja Dukić Čičić, Ana Genzić, Toma Križnar, Nebojša Stanković and Dejan Brkić.

The highlight of the evening was "Star night", where the best choreographies of the day once again shone on the stage, fighting for the title of winner. The audience and the jury, in which the local self-government was represented by the chief administrator, Nenad Đorđević, witnessed exceptional performances.

The first place went to the Ballet Studio "Art Centar" from Belgrade, the second place was taken by the choreography "P.S Mo Stars" from Mostar, and the third place was "City Jazz studio" from Banja Luka.

The evening opened with the award-winning choreography "Jovan Lukina" performed by actors from the Faculty of Dramatic Arts from Cetinje, further confirming the importance of artistic expression in all its forms.

Support for the organization of the first Performing Art Festival was provided by the Municipality of Herceg Novi, the Public Institution of Culture Herceg fest and the Tourist Organization of Herceg Novi.

Photo: KSC Diano, OHN