LADO introduces children to Croatian folklore with first picture book

(LADO)

ZAGREB, 24 February 2026 – Croatia’s national professional folk ensemble, Ansambl LADO, has released its first-ever children’s picture book, Mačka Lada i Lado, marking a new and creative chapter in its nearly 80-year history of preserving and promoting Croatian cultural heritage.

Published in collaboration with Croatian publishing house Bodoni, the warm, humorous and educational book introduces young readers and their parents to the world behind Croatia’s only national professional folklore ensemble.

The book is written by academic musician, singer and poet Zrinka Posavec, illustrated by Dominik Vuković, and edited by award-winning poet and playwright Monika Herceg.

A Story That Brings Croatian Tradition to Life

Mačka Lada i Lado tells the charming story of an unusual cat named Lada who dreams of music and dance.

When she unexpectedly finds herself among the artists of Ansambl LADO, she embarks on an exciting journey that introduces children to Croatian folk songs, traditional dances and the rich cultural heritage that the ensemble has carried across the world for decades.

Through playful storytelling and vivid illustrations, young readers are given a glimpse behind the scenes of a major artistic institution, discovering rehearsals, costumes, emotions and the dedication required to bring traditional performances to life.

(LADO)

Beyond being an artistic milestone for the ensemble, the publication also serves an important educational purpose. Ansambl LADO employs professional dancers, singers and musicians who represent Croatia’s rich intangible cultural heritage on stages worldwide.

The picture book aims to bring that world closer to families and inspire a new generation to appreciate folklore.

Building the Next Generation of Audiences

Ileana Jurin Bakotić, Director of Ansambl LADO, said she was proud to see the project come to life.

“We are delighted that publishing house Bodoni recognised the potential of this idea and helped us realise it. We hope this first picture book presenting LADO’s work will become one of the key early encounters between young audiences and Croatia’s national folk ensemble. LADO continuously works on audience development, and the picture book format is an ideal way to connect with the youngest generation,” she said.

(LADO)

Seid Serdarević, Director of Bodoni, also welcomed the collaboration.

“When Ansambl LADO approached us with the idea of creating a picture book together, I immediately accepted. This is one of Croatia’s most important cultural institutions, an ensemble that has for almost eight decades preserved, nurtured and advanced tradition. The story of a cat who loves to dance and becomes part of the ensemble is the dream of every child who falls in love with dance and traditional costumes. With Zrinka Posavec’s engaging text and Dominik Vuković’s brilliant illustrations, the book opens the door to the world behind the stage, the fears, the excitement and the magnificent artistic achievements,” Serdarević said.

He added that the book is intended for both children and their parents, offering insight into at least a small part of the cultural wealth safeguarded by Ansambl LADO.

The official promotion of Mačka Lada i Lado will take place on Wednesday, 4 March 2026 at 7pm at Knjižara Fraktura (Ulica Kneza Mislava 17) in Zagreb.

The evening will include a reading and presentation of the book, alongside a performance by soloists of Ansambl LADO.

The picture book has been available in Knjižara Fraktura since February and can also be purchased via the Fraktura online shop.