The “Arizonia 2007” First Bulgarian Festival held at “La Camarilla” Raquet/Swim Club in Scottsdale was quite an experience. On behalf of “my fellow Americans”, I presented a short speech about the American Dream. As I congratulate Bulgaria’s entry into the European Union, I think it’s important to continue the goal of having our dreams fulfilled and not giving up. Everyone desires a better life, a secure place to call home, an opportunity to accomplish what we’ve always wanted from our hearts, as well as other noble things. And although I know every person’s life will take a different path, I hope this melting pot of the world will find you well.

Going back to the festival itself, I found (thanks to the organizers of the event—D. K. Orris, T. Radeva, O. Karchev, D. & T. Spasovi, and others) that things were very enjoyable for all the senses. There was never a dull moment. The indoor Bulgarian art exhibit was a colorful feast for the eyes. It featured photography as well as paintings of country landscapes in cool, calm shades and also large portraits of native dancers splashed in bright reds and yellows. You could feel the energy radiating from the images. Outside on the patio, the Bulgarian buffet that stretched along two long tables offered a warm, welcome diversion for the taste buds. The musical performances were interesting for the ears, especially the Bulgarian pop stars singing in English: The adorable Marina Loyd flavored “Amazing Grace” with her cute accent and fluttering piano stylings; Denitca, a young, up-and-coming Bulgarian star was ambitious in her lively body-moving performance while singing about getting over a lover; and the renowned Bulgarian opera singer Mariana Popzlateva exhibited her grace in her accent-laced, yet elegant, offering of “The Phantom of the Opera”. Although the art exhibit in the building became cleared out because everybody came outside, there was more yet to come for the eyes to behold. Dancing pros Nikolai Karchev and Atanaska dazzled the crowd with their swift ballroom moves. The fashion show by Galina Mihaleva featuring her unique Bulgarian designs was a sight nobody wanted to miss, as I myself tried to shift in different directions away from people’s heads just to see the stage. I tell you, every glimpse that I could get of the outfits was of intriguing detail—and as flashes of light, the model displays quickly rolled on. Later in the festival show, there was folklore singer Mihaela and also Bulgarian poetry and dialogues, both humorous and dramatic; unfortunately, I could not understand to enjoy them with the others who could. But there was still some room left for fun for one more thing. It was wonderful to see people of color and diverse nationality join in the Bulgarian horo, the grand finale in the festival. It showed that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from in the world; we all dance in the same circle together.

Blessings to you all.

~ Malissa N. Posyananda

Opinions on the festival

Just wanted to say that I think you did a fantastic job on the festival and I admire you for doing it!
Kathy Carpenter
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What a wonderful evening! We had no idea that Phoenix had such a vibrant Bulgarian community – one that contributes so nicely to the arts, culture, and flavor of our city.
Suzi Hobin & Patty Roma
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We loved the fashion show most of all, but everything else was equally impressive. We wish that the Romanians could come up with something like that.
Good job, “Neighbors”!
Ana and Steve Stefan (Romania)

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This past April, I was invited to attend the very first Bulgarian Festival held in Phoenix. It was truly a social coup, and spectacular event. The entertainment was beyond wonderful, and the food was epicurean delight. I am looking forward to next year’s festival with great anticipation.
Mary Dwyer -
Administrative Secretary
Rio North @ Paradise Valley Mall

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