Belarus Hosts Creative Internship for Foreign Art Leaders: Exploring Choreography

Minsk is hosting a creative internship from November 11th to 16th. This event gathers heads of Belarusian amateur art groups and public organizations from abroad. It is part of the Culture of Belarus state program. The focus of this internship is Belarusian choreography. Thirty participants from five countries—Russia, Kazakhstan, Estonia, Latvia, and Italy—arrived in Minsk.

Our reporter spoke with Sossio Capasso from Naples during a press conference titled “Belarus – the Centre of Attraction and Strength.” Sossio came with his wife, Irina Topchilko. They have lived in Naples for 14 years. Irina is eager to return to Belarus and shares her culture with Sossio.

“In Naples, we have a Belarusian choir called Spadchyna, which means ‘heritage.’ It has members from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and me, an Italian,” Irina said. Sossio helps with technical aspects of the choir. He is learning about Belarusian culture through this internship.

How does Sossio Capasso’s involvement in a Belarusian choir enhance his understanding of Belarusian culture?

Title: Embracing Belarusian Culture: An Interview with Sossio Capasso at the Creative Internship in Minsk

Minsk, Belarus – As the vibrant city hosts a creative internship focusing on Belarusian choreography from November 11th to 16th, we had the opportunity to speak with Sossio Capasso, a participant from Naples, Italy. Alongside his wife, Irina Topchilko, Sossio has embraced the chance to connect with Belarusian culture through this unique event.

Reporter: Sossio, welcome to Minsk! What motivated you to participate in this internship?

Sossio Capasso: Thank you! I came here mainly because of Irina. She is passionate about sharing her Belarusian culture, and I want to support her in that. This internship is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Belarusian choreography and culture.

Reporter: It sounds like a meaningful experience. Can you tell us more about your involvement in the Belarusian choir in Naples?

Sossio Capasso: Yes, the choir is called Spadchyna, which means ‘heritage.’ It consists of members from different backgrounds—Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and I’m the Italian. I assist with the technical aspects of the choir, but through this, I’ve started to appreciate the beauty of the Belarusian culture more deeply.

Reporter: Have you had a chance to learn the language during your time here?

Sossio Capasso: Not yet! I find it quite challenging, but I love listening to the choir. Even though I don’t know the words, the energy and emotion in the music really inspire me.

Reporter: It’s wonderful to hear that you’re enjoying the music! What do you think about Belarus as a country compared to Naples?

Sossio Capasso: I’ve actually fallen in love with Belarus! The cleanliness of the surroundings stands out to me – the roads are wide, the food is fantastic, and the public transport is reliable. I’ve been telling all my family back home that I want to stay here. The only challenges I face are the cold weather and the absence of Italian pasta, which I miss dearly! (laughs)

Reporter: It sounds like you’re truly embracing your time here! What are you most looking forward to during the internship?

Sossio Capasso: I’m excited to learn more about the choreography and meet other participants from different countries. Each has their own unique perspective and experiences to share, and I believe this will enrich my understanding of Belarusian culture even more.

Reporter: Thank you, Sossio! It’s inspiring to hear about your journey and connection to Belarus. We wish you the best for the rest of the internship!

As the creative internship progresses, it’s clear that the cultural exchange happening in Minsk is creating lasting bonds among participants from various countries, further enriching the tapestry of Belarusian art and heritage.

Sossio admits that he hasn’t learned the language yet. However, he enjoys listening to the choir. “I don’t know the words, but the energy inspires me. I love how clean Belarus is compared to Naples. The roads are wide, the food is great, and the transport is reliable. I have fallen in love with this country. I told all my relatives I will stay in Belarus. The cold and lack of Italian pasta are the only challenges for me,” Sossio shared with a smile.