Dance formation "SOFISTIK-JIVO" was found in 1983 in Sofia, BULGARIA by Zhivko Petrov and Elina Topalska. Artistic director and choreographer of the ensemble by the end of his life is Mr Petrov. Elina Topalska continues his work as an artistic director.

         The ensemble involves dancer from 4 to 50 years old. Over 120 dancers are currently part of the "Sofistik-Jivo" dance family.

DF “Sofistik-Jivo” is one of the first dance groups in Bulgaria to to approach dance art in its genre diversity. Until today, this is particularly important and powerful part of the repertoire of the formation. It has always consisted of Bulgarian folk dances from all ethnographic regions both in an authentic and modernized form, character/ typical dances, modern and show dance, contemporary and jazz, hip hop and street dance.        

In 2009 the members of the Dance formation formed a new Dance Association which established itself as an outstanding innovatory cultural organization in Bulgaria. The Association’s main goal is to aim the artistic development of young people engaged in dance. It annually participates in various educational, art and cultural programs (local, national  and international).

As part of the Association, DF “Sofistik-Jivo” is an active participant in the cultural life of Sofiya (the capital of Bulgaria). The formation’s dancers of all ages take part in numerous events - concerts, festivals and competitions and it is usually among the winners. Since the year of its foundation the ensemble has consistently produced and presented annual and thematic dance performance.

DF “Sofistik-jivo” brings a message of a unique style - innovative, vibrant, stimulating and moving art. It is a reflection of the 30-year artistic tradition in folk dance, music and customs and recently in the field of modern dance art.