IFLC Brings Global Cultures to Life in Chicago with ‘Traces of Time’ Performance

IFLC Brings Global Cultures to Life in Chicago with ‘Traces of Time’ Performance

The international culture and arts program organized under the banner of the International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC), took the stage in Chicago, USA, with the theme “Traces of Time.” Thousands of spectators who followed the special performance without taking a breath applauded the nearly 3-hour show with a standing ovation.

Staged at the Athenaeum Center, located in the heart of Chicago—one of the leading art centers in the United States—“Traces of Time” presented world cultures to the audience through music, dance, visual arts, costumes, and special choreography, offering an emotional and aesthetically rich experience.

Preparations for the show began a year in advance, and dozens of students from around the world gathered in Germany for the production. A total of 30 dancers and 50 singers—each one the fruit of seeds planted by education volunteers of the Hizmet Movement—performed brilliantly on stage.

During the program, Chicago Turkish-American Association Board Member Özlem Keskin delivered a “Welcome” speech. Keskin said, “Tonight, as we come together from all over the world, we will witness the power of music, art and storytelling to unite people. In a world that often feels divided, this stage is a symbol of hope, unity and the limitless potential of our youth. With their talents, dedication and passion, these young artists show that bridges of understanding can be built between cultures, languages and generations.” Keskin added, “We are honored to host 90 extraordinary young artists from 15 different countries, each bringing their own voice, story and cultural background to this stage. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the musicians and performers who worked tirelessly to prepare this wonderful show.”

Following Keskin’s remarks, Illinois State Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza also made a short welcoming speech. Mendoza first invited those who were simply visiting Chicago to consider staying and making the city their home.

Mendoza asked the audience for applause in support of the talented young men and women about to take the stage, and said that as a state, hosting such diverse cultures, languages and beauty was a “privilege.” She added that she holds a special place in her heart particularly for Turkish culture.

DIALOGUE AND PEACE EMPHASIZED BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Another speaker, Illinois State Representative Michelle Mussman, said, “On behalf of the Illinois House of Representatives, I thank the IFLC organizers, the Turkish American Society of Chicago (TASC), and everyone who made this incredible event possible tonight.” Mussman also thanked IFLC for choosing Chicago as one of its global host cities, and said, “We are proud to take part in this prestigious festival. Now, more than ever, it is truly important that we celebrate our diversity, engage in meaningful dialogue, and nurture our shared commitment to peace and friendship among all people.”

The program began with an impressive introductory video summarizing IFLC’s years-long cultural and artistic journey. The video presented emotional moments with highlights from the festival’s most memorable events around the world.

After the introduction, all children came on stage together to perform “Colors of the World.” Colorful costumes, enthusiastic singing and the high energy on stage captivated the audience from the very first moments.

Immediately afterward, a special choreography was presented to Frank Sinatra’s world-famous song “Chicago,” prepared exclusively for the city. Blending local elements with modern touches, the performance received great acclaim from the audience.

During the program, IFLC’s inspiration, Fethullah Gülen, was remembered with respect. On this special night where art, culture and universal values came together, his vision for humanity and universal brotherhood was once again highlighted.

LIFE’S JOURNEY TOLD THROUGH ART CAPTURES GREAT INTEREST IN CHICAGO

The locally inspired costumes, specially designed stage sets, lighting arrangements, choreography, songs and dances received full praise from the audience throughout the show. Every detail reflected cultural richness and artistic dedication with remarkable impact.

The historic Athenaeum Center also stood out with its technical infrastructure. The large LED screens backstage allowed spectators to follow the show clearly from every angle, intensifying the atmosphere even further.

The performance portrayed the human journey from birth to death through the universal language of art. The joy of a baby’s arrival, the excitement of a wedding, and the grief following a loss were conveyed with emotional depth through staged performances.

At times the venue echoed with davul, zurna and dombra, and at other moments with guitar and trumpet. In this show where East met West and past met future, the multilingual presentation also stood out.

Songs were performed in Turkish, Kurdish, Persian, English, Spanish, French, Kazakh, Japanese, German, Albanian, Swahili, Hindi and Italian. Students representing different cultural identities further supported this multilingual structure with various dance choreographies. Regardless of language, religion, color or origin, these young performers—joined by love, tolerance and unity—stood as one heart on the same stage.

Performances ranged from the authentic melodies of the Kazakh and Kyrgyz steppes, to the energetic dances shaped by the warm sun of Tanzania, the melodic rhythms of Indonesia, and the deep-rooted traditional figures of Romania. Nine-year-old Namık from Arkansas delivered an unforgettable moment for the audience with his energetic and spirited Dombra performance.

Each country showcased its cultural heritage through music and dance, giving spectators a journey around the world. “Traces of Time” first took the stage in July in the city of Bochum, Germany.