It is the folk group “Navruz Dance Ensemble” from Uzbekistan that won the “Golden Temple” of the 65th edition of Almond Blossom. Since its foundation 12 years ago, it has been performing the Khorazm dance, which has been included in Unesco’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2019.
The award was presented by the Regional Councilor for Tourism, Elvira Amata, the Prefect Maria Rita Cocciufa and the Mayor of Agrigento, Francesco Miccichè.
The awards ceremony took place just after 6 p.m. in front of a valley crowded with thousands of people patiently waiting for the end of the final show, which started later than planned.
As always it was a great party with music and colors renamed ‘Rebirth Edition’ after the stop due to Covid.
Uzbekistan had already won the “Ugo Re Capriata” award presented by Assostampa from Agrigento. The Gigi Casesa Award, Historical President of the Val d’Akragas Group, was given to the French group “Ballet de Savoie” for being able to present the most authentic and genuine folkloric expression in an original way. During the ceremony, the Valle dei Templi Tourism District presented the Costa del Mito Prize to the Indian group that, with its presence in Agrigento, fulfilled the best function of tourism promotion in its territory.
The controversies and problems of the day
There was obviously no lack of controversy and criticism on the day of the final show. Traffic in the city was really out of control this morning, mainly due to a relatively small number of people responsible for control and an overabundance of vehicles to manage. The “terror stories” of citizens are countless: there are those who were kidnapped at home because of cars parked in front of their warehouse (despite parking bans with parade), those who are also in a modern day in areas such as via Bac Bac or via Acrone.
Many have highlighted the strategic error of diverting traffic to “dead ends” such as Via Gioeni, with the consequence that vehicles had to reverse course when they arrived in Piazza Bibbirria, or, worse, entered via Bac Bac and were blocked at the end to allow the procession to flow.
How will the evening go on?
Stop at the parades and folklore in Piazza Marconi Square for fun, music and food. At the “Mandorlo in fiore Food Village” “The Momus” will perform at 8pm, while from 9.30pm the famous comedian Sasà Salvaggio will entertain those present with a live show. It will of course be possible to continue to taste local products and excellent local food and wine.