euskalkultura.eus

Parana, Argentina.  Members and friends of the club as well as representatives of other local communities gathered on April 13^th at the Hotel El Circulo in Parana to celebrate the anniversaries of the Urrundik Association and the radio program “Presencia Vasca.”  Fourteen years of the creation of Urrundik and twenty-four for “Presencia-Vasca” with the party surpassing the expectations of its organizers not only by the number of people who attended by also by the festive climate that reigned throughout the afternoon.

[Federico Borras, conductor and coordinator of “Presencia Vasca,” Ricardo Basterra FEVA President and Mikel Ezkerro “Presencia Vasca” collaborator as well as Basque cultural reference in Argentina talking during the meal (photoEE)]

From the beginning of the event at noon, the room reserved for it was the site of a rich program shared with the audience.  Entertainment included a performance by club dancers under the direction of Ignacio Borras, and the pair Yanina Figueroa and Diego Abrard, which added a touch of Argentinean folklore to the Basque afternoon.

[Urrundik celebrated its anniversary with music and dance.  In the case of the neskak, they performed Arku dantza (photoEE)]

[The boys, on the other hand performed San Miguel (photoEE)]

Following the artistic performances, Maria Silva and Juan Carlos Borras took the stage and were accompanied by Oscar Giles.  Typical Basque instruments were also heard during the afternoon in Parana.  In particular the txistu and tamboril played by Federico Borras.

[One of the most emotional moments of the day was when the children presented an ikurriña that they made themselves (photoEE)]

Throughout the afternoon there were also drawings and presentations of souvenirs to those present.  At the time to make a toast there was also cake and candles, along with best wishes for those being honored.  After the toast some got up to dance a waltz.

Mikel Ezkerro and youth in Parana

Anniversary activities had nevertheless begun the day before at Urrundik with Mikel Ezkerro getting together with club dancers. Dancers of all ages listened attentively to the talk he gave at the clubhouse.   

[Mikel Ezkerro talking to Urrundik youth (photoEE)]

“It was a beautiful encounter in which Mikel spoke to them clearly and lucidly as always.  After his presentation, he also responded to questions.  Mikel loves to be among the youth with whom he shares a special warmth and respect.  That is why we also look forward to his visits,” said Juan Carlos Borras, Urrundik’s president.