Investigation of the characteristic structure of Kars region Caucasian folk dances Kazağı, Kentvari, and Şeyh Şamil dances

This research was conducted to systematically examine the characteristic features of Caucasian folk dances (Kazağı, Kentvari, and Şeyh Şamil) in the Kars region. Qualitative research methods were used in this study. Data was collected through interviews with five experienced master instructors on folk dances in the Kars region and analyzed using the content analysis method with the MAXQDA program. The research found that the Kars region's Kazağı, Kentvari, and Şeyh Şamil games have lost meaning in the modernization process of traditional cultural codes. However, it was determined that the thematic, structural, and performative characteristics of these games continue to carry social memory and cultural identity.