Director: Vahid Salimov International Festival-Competition «ISTANBUL AUTUMN FESTIVAL» is a vibrant cultural event of the autumn season that opens new creative horizons for artists from all corners of the world. It is an opportunity to showcase talent, make a name on the international stage, and immerse oneself in the unique atmosphere of historic Istanbul. Festival highlights: Professional international jury Spectacular opening and closing ceremonies Discos and flash mobs Participants from 4 years old and from various countries Exclusive trophies, medals, and diplomas for every participant Diplomas for groups, letters of appreciation, and commemorative gifts for directors and choreographers Cash prize of €500 for the winner of the SUPER Grand Prix Every 21st participant receives free participation for the entire festival period FREE ENTRY for all spectators to the concert venue! Goals and objectives of the festival: Discovering and supporting outstanding talents among children, youth, and adults Promoting intercultural connections and strengthening friendship between nations Creating opportunities for the exchange of creative and educational experiences between groups from different countries Nominations: Each group may present 1-2 performances of their choice. CHOREOGRAPHY (up to 5 minutes): Folk Dance Folk-Stylized Dance Variety Dance Classical Dance Contemporary Dance Caucasian Dance Oriental Dance Sport Dance Street Dance Free Plastic Movement / Contemporary Modern Gymnastics Original Genre Special nomination: "Debut Choreography" VOCAL (up to 5 minutes): Pop Singing Original Song Classical (Academic) Singing Folk Singing Jazz Singing Patriotic Song Choral Singing Special Nomination: "Debut Vocal" INSTRUMENTAL ART (up to 7 minutes): Classical Instruments (violin, guitar, cello, etc.) Folk Instruments (dombra, bayan, balalaika, accordion, etc.) Wind Instruments (flute, saxophone, trumpet, clarinet, etc.) Pop Instruments (drums, synthesizer, electric guitar, etc.) Age categories: up to 5 years old 5-7 years 8-10 years 11-14 years 15-18 years 18 years old and above Mixed age group Awards: SUPER Grand Prix - 500 Euro (awarded based not only on scores but also on the discipline and behavior of the entire group throughout the festival) Grand Prix winners and the most outstanding participants receive invitations to festivals in other countries with a 15% discount Laureates of I, II, and III places All participants receive medals, diplomas, and commemorative gifts Directors and choreographers receive letters of appreciation, commemorative gifts, and souvenirs Financial terms of participation Cost for international participants: 350 Euro / 5 days (4 nights) Check-in: 28th October at 2:00 PM Check-out: 1st November at 12:00 PM The price includes: Accommodation in a 5* hotel Breakfast buffet Competition fee for 2 entries Sightseeing tour: Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii) Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya Camii) Topkapi Palace (Topkapı Sarayı) Istiklal Street (İstiklal Caddesi) and Taksim Square (Taksim Meydanı) Yacht cruise on the Bosphorus (İstanbul Boğazı) Transfers: Airport - hotel - airport To the concert venue By excursion routes Gala dinner for group leaders - a festive conclusion to the festival, providing an opportunity for informal networking and experience sharing. Additional costs: Air tickets to Istanbul IMPORTANT: Tickets to Istanbul should only be purchased after the application is confirmed and coordinated with the organizing committee! Lunch and dinner For participants from Turkey: Competition fee per person - 20 Euro Mandatory conditions: Groups with fewer than 20 participants will not be accepted. Only one child under 3 years old is allowed per group. Group leaders and delegation heads are responsible for the life and health of children during their stay in Istanbul. The organizer reserves the right to use photos and videos from the event for promotional purposes. The jury has the right not to award or to share places. The jury’s decision is final and not subject to review. In case of conflicts or disrespectful behavior towards participants, jury members, or the organizing committee, the organizer reserves the right to deny participation without refund of any paid fees. Parents are prohibited from interfering in organizational or creative processes. All accommodation and participation issues must be handled exclusively through the group leader. Submission of an application signifies full acceptance of the festival’s terms and conditions. Any group willing to participate must submit an Application form. Approved groups pay in advance a 10% guarantee fee, which is to be deducted at the final payment. Next step: The group transfers a 100 Euro advance payment to the main organizer of the festival.