Tantsu Sild 2026 brings together researchers, cultural heritage specialists, dancers, and enthusiasts from Armenia and Estonia for a day of lectures, cultural exchange, and live folk dance performances.
The gathering explores traditional dance as a living form of cultural heritage, examining its historical roots, its role in shaping collective identity, and the ways traditions are preserved and passed on across generations.
We chose Courtyard Tower (Õuetorn), a hidden gem within Tallinn’s Kultuurikatel (Culture Hub), for its unique atmosphere, perfectly suited to this cultural gathering. Originally an industrial gas tower, this circular venue blends historic industrial charm with a contemporary feel in the cultural heart of Tallinn.
Meet Our Speakers
The event will feature talks by guest specialists from Armenia:
Lusine Nahatakyan, PhD researcher in Archaeology at Yerevan State University and practitioner of Armenian traditional dance with the Lernapar Ensemble since 2014.
Topic: “Representations of Dance in Visual and Oral Heritage: From Rock Art and Medieval Tombstones to Folk Tales”
Davit Nahatakyan, PhD in Architecture, heritage conservation specialist, and founder of the TAYK Armenian Traditional Song and Dance Ensemble in Estonia (2016).
Topic: “From Dance Games to the Battlefield: Military Education through Dance and Its Consequences”
Ani Ginosyan, Artistic Director of the Karin Traditional Song and Dance Group and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the National Song and Dance Academy Educational and Cultural Foundation, actively involved in preserving and promoting Armenian traditional dance through education and research.
Topic: “The Life Cycle of Dance: From Documentation to Its Meaningful Return to the People”
Estonian experts will also contribute to the programme, offering insights into local folk culture and traditions.
Together, they will explore the historical roots of traditional dance, its representation in cultural heritage, its role in shaping collective identity, and the ways dance traditions are preserved and passed on to future generations.
Cultural Programme
Alongside the lectures, the event will feature short performances by Armenian and Estonian folk dance groups, celebrating the diversity and shared cultural significance of traditional dance.
The programme will also include coffee breaks and a catered lunch break, providing opportunities for informal conversations, networking, and cultural exchange.
The event welcomes everyone interested in traditional dance, cultural heritage, history, and Armenian-Estonian cultural connections. No prior knowledge of traditional dance is required.
Event Details
Sunday, October 25, 2026
🎟️ Ticket price: €15
🕤 09:30 - Doors open and registration
🕙 10:00 - 16:30 - Conference programme
📍 Courtyard Tower (Õuetorn), Kultuurikatel, Tallinn, Estonia
The detailed event schedule will be sent to registered participants via email.
Organizers and Partners
Tantsu Sild 2026 is organized by Eesti Armeenia Kogukond “DVIN” MTÜ in cooperation with Mashtots Armenian Sunday School, with the support of Ms. Piruza Harutjunjan, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Estonia.
Kultuurikatel • Kursi tänav 3, 10415 Tallinn, Harju maakond, Estonia
