File:Malanca ( The Gypsy ) 03.jpg

English: In the village of Lipnic in the Ocnița district of the Republic of Moldova, the ancient winter custom of Malanca is preserved - a spectacle featuring masked performers, carols, music, songs, dances, and theatrical scenes.

A group of masked individuals carries out the Malanca procession in the village on Saint Basil's Day or on the eve of the Old New Year. All costumes are handmade, carefully preserved, and passed down from generation to generation. The Malanca ritual remains a vibrant and active part of the local community's festive life, and in its unique form, this local tradition embodies common traits characteristic of costume and theater culture, primarily folk theater.

The main techniques and methods used to create a spectacular and sonorous score for the ritualistic action are contrast and correlated oxymoron, employed, among other things, to achieve the task of overcoming the terrifying and transforming it into amusement. Additionally, expressive means such as clustering, violating usual norms and connections, parody, and playing with gender roles are employed.

Most important is the principle of reincarnation, as masking is the core theatrical and playful component of this custom, with other elements closely tied to it and flowing from it.