On December 27, the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation organized its traditional New Year show on the eve of the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and New Year celebrations.

This time, the highly anticipated show, especially by children, was titled "The Adventures of Toys."

The event was attended by the Vice President of the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation, Altay Hasanov, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Farid Gayibov, his deputy Mariana Vasileva, and the President of the Azerbaijan Cycling Federation, Madat Guliyev.

The National Gymnastics Arena truly resembled a world of magic. This specially decorated venue created an atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale, bringing joy to children.

The storyline of the show was developed under the leadership of AGF choreographers Kamil Guliyev and Akif Karimli, featuring characters from famous animated films. The performers included members of the national gymnastics teams, coaches, and choreographers, who seamlessly blended gymnastics with theatrical elements.

The audience embarked on a thrilling adventure as they watched the show unfold.

More than 100 gymnasts, including members of the national teams in rhythmic gymnastics, men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, acrobatic gymnastics, aerobic gymnastics, general gymnastics, and TeamGym, as well as club representatives, presented a spectacular performance that left a lasting impression.

Demonstrating both their athletic and acting skills, the gymnasts captivated the audience with their roles, creating moments of excitement and wonder.

The show featured dazzling lighting, sound, and graphic effects, along with specially designed costumes, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

The event began with a special performance by gymnasts from the Special Olympics. Mehriban Taghiyeva, a gold and bronze medalist at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Berlin (rhythmic gymnastics), as well as Special Olympian Farid Ojiyev and the Special Olympics gymnastics team, presented an impressive routine.

Aerial gymnast Sabina Mammadova also mesmerized the audience with her breathtaking performance.

The audience was then transported into an adventure featuring characters from The Walt Disney animated universe. They witnessed the preparation of toys for the New Year celebration and a conflict between positive and negative characters following the theft of the star that adorned the Christmas tree. In the end, all characters resolved their differences and celebrated the holiday together.

Children, gathered in the hall to joyfully welcome the New Year, were the most excited spectators. Seeing their favorite animated characters together, watching their performances accompanied by enchanting music, and enjoying the presence of Santa Claus, Snow Maiden, clowns, surprises, and gifts enhanced their happiness. The audience’s emotions and applause reflected their amazement and delight in the magical experience.

The show also featured performances by renowned Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnasts who had retired from competitive sports. These distinguished athletes, who proudly represented Azerbaijan on international stages, included European Championship silver and bronze medalist Siyana Vasileva, European Championship silver and bronze medalist and Tokyo 2020 Olympian Diana Ahmadbeyli, European Championship bronze medalist and Tokyo 2020 Olympian Ayshe Bayramova, and European Championship silver and bronze medalist and Tokyo 2020 Olympian Aliya Pashayeva. The spectacular New Year event marked their official farewell to their gymnastics careers.

The gymnasts expressed immense pride in representing their country on prestigious platforms and shared their unforgettable experiences throughout their careers. Later, Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov and President of the Azerbaijan Cycling Federation Madat Guliyev presented commemorative plaques to the gymnasts in recognition of their contributions to the development of gymnastics.

Additionally, for the first time, a special video titled “Golden Ten” was screened, highlighting the gymnasts who won ten gold medals in various European and World Championships in 2023. In the video, the athletes spoke about the qualities required to overcome challenges on their journey to victory.

Thus, the magnificent show, which brought bright emotions, smiles, and a festive New Year spirit to the audience, came to an end.

People usually celebrate this holiday with their families, loved ones, and closest friends. This year, we celebrated it together as one big, united gymnastics family.

Once again, this show proved that in sports, the most important values are not just strength but also unity and friendship.