Rexhep Çeliku’s Legacy Revived: A Dignified Homage to Albania’s Dance Icon

The concert dedicated to Rexhep Çeliku, the legendary dancer of the National Folk Ensemble, concluded with prolonged applause from an audience that filled the hall of the National Theatre of Opera, Ballet, and Folk Ensemble (TKOBAP) on Thursday evening.
Titled “The Flying Dancer – Rexhep Çeliku,” the event gathered distinguished artists, family members, friends, colleagues, and admirers. It served as a dignified tribute to the “eagle of dance” on stage and the humble man behind the spotlight. Throughout the evening, the spirit and energy that Rexhep Çeliku shared in over three thousand performances during his illustrious career were vividly revived on stage.
To bring this tribute to life, the National Folk Ensemble, accompanied by the orchestra, vocal group, dance ensemble, and soloists, collaborated under the guidance of master choreographer Genc Kastrati. The concert also featured special guests, including the renowned Irini Qirjako, Besnik Grajcevci from the “Shota” Ensemble, and singer Fiqirete Kapo.
“As long as Albanian dance continues to resonate, Rexhep Çeliku’s art will keep his legacy alive,” read a post on TKOBAP’s official website.




