Folklore show in the Toza Bog Palace in Khiva

Since ancient times Khorezm is famous for its dances, music and rich history. The culture of Khorezm played a huge role in the development of world culture. In Khorezm appeared such types of dances as “Lyazgi”, “Dance on a Plate“, “Dance of Broken Fingers.” All these types of dances are completely different from dances of other regions of Uzbekistan because the music in Khorezm dances is more melodic and incendiary. The rhythm of dancing is faster and in the end, it becomes completely unstoppable. The movements of the arms, hands and shoulders are more precise and expressive. Another distinguishing feature of the Khorezm dance is the accompaniment with an unusual musical instrument – kairak. These are castanets, polished in a natural way, in which the performers hold 2 stones of different thicknesses in each hand and can perform complex usuli rhythms.

In Khorezm, female folk singers on the accordion are known as Halfa. This type of art is considered to be very ancient and was formed over several centuries. According to sources, the Halfas initially appeared in the harems of rulers, where wives and concubines lived. Later, they began to perform in front of ordinary people during wedding ceremonies and other ritual events. In addition to a clear voice, they also had a talent for wit and literacy. Previously, the art of halfa was transferred from teacher to disciple, and now, there are special schools where they teach this type of art.

If you want to plunge into the world of Khorezm music, feel the beauty of incendiary dances, see unusual musical instruments and dance with professional dancers, then we invite you to visit the folklore show in the summer residence of the Khiva Khans-Kibla Tozabog. The residence is located two kilometers from the old town and surrounded by an extensive garden with a variety of trees and plants. The building was built in the XIX century by order of the Khiva Khan, Said Muhammad Rahimkhan II. Inside the residence, there are 3 courtyards of different sizes. Each courtyard has two-story houses surrounded by carved wooden columns on the outside. On the territory of each courtyard, there are large aivans with carved railings and legs, on which the khan and his relatives rested on the hottest days of the summer.

The unusual atmosphere of the summer residence of the khans, a delicious dinner and cheerful dances will give your evening an unforgettable feeling.

The folklore show is arranged by the order of tourist groups and lasts about an hour.