Makfest 41 opens in Shtip with debut night

Makfest opens its 41st edition in Shtip tonight, launching with the festival’s debut night that will introduce new songs and performers to the stage.

Debutants, orchestra and a flag-raising

Organizers say preparations are complete and the event will feature the festival orchestra conducted by Ilija Kiosevski. Robert Sazdov, the festival’s artistic director, said: "From year to year 'Makfest' records progress, both technically and musically. Everything is ready, including the orchestra, under the leadership of Ilija Kiosevski. We are ready for the start and I believe we expect a great festival edition."

Tonight’s programme is reserved for first-time contestants and their new recordings. Only six performers from the opening night will move on to the second evening, based on audience votes in the hall and the assessment of the expert jury — an element that organizers say adds extra excitement to the competitive part of the festival.

The festival’s atmosphere was signalled earlier with the traditional raising of the Makfest flag, a duty this year performed by singer Lara Ivanova together with Shtip’s mayor, Ivan Jordanov. Ivanova received an award for the most-streamed song between festivals for her hit "Dominanten".

"I am truly happy to be part of the traditional flag-raising again this year, and it is an even greater honour to receive the award for the most-listened song. I must mention 'Bela', which was promoted right on this stage and grew into one of the biggest Macedonian hits of the last decade. From what I have heard so far of the new compositions, I am convinced that this year we will again have several songs that will become hits," Ivanova said, and she will also perform on the festival stage.

The organisers also presented a special festival CD at a press conference, which collects all compositions from this year’s edition and preserves the musical selection of Makfest 41. Tonight’s debut night line-up includes: Anastasija Spasevska, Dragana Jovanovska, Devana, Kaly and Goki, Sanela Shukrievska, Nenad Vrzhalski, Tri pati na den, Doris Di, Arte-Fakt, Ana Tsambuleva, Dono, Tamara Grujeska, Tea Zlateva, Marija Naumoska and Elena Naumova.

Photo: press material from the event