Lucnica Doyen Stefan Nosal Dies Aged 90 

Bratislava, July 23 (TASR) – Stefan Nosal, who devoted his whole professional life to the Lucnica folklore ensemble as its choreographer and artistic director, died at the age of 90 in Bratislava on Saturday evening, TASR learnt from Lucnica’s representatives on Sunday.

Born in Hrinova (Banska Bystrica region) on January 20, 1927, Nosal received a degree in civil engineering in Bratislava in 1953 before going on to study dance choreography.

A Lucnica dancer since 1949, he was appointed as the ensemble’s artistic director and choreographer a mere two years later. He created over 100 dancing compositions and a number of feature, thematic compositions during his prolific career. He also had a long career as a professor at the Academy of Performing Arts (VSMU) in Bratislava.

The nearly 70 years that Nosal led Lucnica artistically is viewed as a unique feat worldwide. Lucnica started off as a troupe of young enthusiasts from the Zivena Society in 1948.

Nosal received a number of accolades, including the Ludovit Stur Order Second Class from the state in 1997. Ten years later, he was recognised with the Pribina Cross First Class.