The fourth International Festival of Jewish Youth Arts of Central Asia "Freilehe Kinder" was conducted between 27 and 29 June 2008. Festival participants included theatrical and musical groups and performers, and choirs from Jewish communities and organisations from Central Asia.






  This festival was dedicated to the 10th anniversary of Astana. It was designed to put into practice various programmes for the development of children’s and youth leadership, and for the advancement of Jewish art. The theme for the Fourth Festival was "Yiddish Culture". Freilehe Kinder" was conducted according to the rules of the festival, which require at least one of the works to be performed in Yiddish language. In order to achieve this a number of preparatory activities were held in the participating cities, which helped to familiarise the festival’s guests with various trends of the Jewish culture, and with the history of Jewish people in Kazakhstan and abroad.

  During the three days of the festival 180 participants from 13 cities of Kazakhstan not only demonstrated their abilities and talents, but also had an opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.

  "I hope that your artistic successes continue," said Aharon Weiss, the Counsel of Community Organisation "Joint". "This festival assists in development of friendly bonds and artistic connections. I wish all participants best of luck for their performances and much applause. I am sure that the artists and the audience alike will enjoy themselves!"



  Yoseph Lebovich, the Representative of the worldwide agency "Sokhnut" in Kazakhstan and Alexander Baron, the president of Association of Jewish National Organisations in Kazakhstan also provided their support for the children and wished them luck.

  The festival concluded with a gala concert. Certificates were awarded to the participants during the final ceremony.


                       

Anna Naumova.