MAIN STAGE:
DANCE GROUPS
ROMANETZ UKRAINIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE
One Saturday night in the fall of 1977, four friends gathered at a German Club Hall. Ed Prociuk, Ed Los, Nestor Chubaty, and Phil Tysarski were enjoying the evening when a Ukrainian band struck up a rendition of the famous Kolomyika. The friends noticed a lack of activity on the dance floor, and said to themselves, “Let’s show them what real Ukrainian dancing is all about!” None of them had ever taken formal Ukrainian dance instruction, but they all knew the basic steps and tricks that would wow the audience. They enjoyed the experience so much that they decided to begin a Ukrainian dance group.
They all agreed that the group would be based on the philosophy that any interested adult would be given the opportunity to learn Ukrainian dance, whether they had experience or were just a beginner. So the group was formed, with 18 people attending the first practice under the instruction of Bob Zaporozan and Joanne Korban.
Zuravle was born in the spring of 1978 and performed for the first time at the Sarto Ukrainian Dance recital. Following this performance, the group learned that “Zuravle” meant Crane and decided to change the name to Romanatz. This is a hardy daisy that covers the steppes or foothills of Ukraine, and is both strong and beautiful. Romanatz performed a few more times in the first year, including at Folklorama in its own early years.
Over time, the name has changed from Romanatz to Romanetz, but the philosophy remains the same; a Ukrainian dance group with an open door policy, welcoming dancers of all experience levels and ethnic backgrounds to cultivate their passionate spirit for Ukrainian dance and culture, and 40 years later, we are still going strong!
ROSSDALE UKRAINIAN DANCERS
The Rossdale Ukrainian Dance School was established in 1977 in Rossdale, Manitoba. With an interest to preserve the Ukrainian culture and share the rich diversity of the heritage, the beauty and the spirit of Ukrainian dance began to flourish. Although the initial goals were humble, the school quickly grew, and through careful planning and attention to accuracy has prospered.
In addition to performing at local festivals, events, competitions and Folklorama, over the years Rossdale Dancers have ventured to Expo ‘86 in Vancouver and Thunder Bay, Ontario in 1991. Internationally, dancers have performed at California’s Ukrainian Arts Festival in San Diego, and in 2015, Vitretz performed at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
Still to this present day, the school has kept its tradition of performing at local festivals, competitions, Folklorama and are always looking for new excursions. The spirit which was born 42 years ago in that small town still thrives today, in each dancer past and present.
ROZMAI UKRAINIAN DANCE COMPANY
Established in 1971, ROZMAI consistently reflects Ukrainian culture and tradition in the beauty of the performing art of dance. The company’s uniqueness is derived from the marriage of the Canadian experience and traditional Ukrainian roots.
Presently under the artistic direction of Gabriela Rehak, ROZMAI’s choreography highlights regional dances and steps from the broad, sweeping movements of the Steppes, to the highly acrobatic jumps of the Carpathian region, to the incredibly syncopated rhythms of Bukovyna.
ROZMAI’s commitment to the beauty of dance and preservation of the Ukrainian culture is reflected in their compelling and electric performances which are accentuated by breath-taking leaps, high velocity footwork and brilliant costuming. This young group of energetic dancers always leaves audiences wanting more. From Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada – ROZMAI!
RUSALKA UKRAINIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE
For 60 years, the Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble has been capturing the imagination of audiences around the world with its often fiery, always colourful presentation of Ukrainian dance. Built on a foundation of discipline, devotion, and camaraderie, Rusalka has become an integral part of the Winnipeg arts community. Rusalka’s rich choreographic repertoire features dances from Ukraine’s diverse regions, styles, and moods to captivate any audience.
It is with ancient Ukrainian folklore in mind that Rusalka’s founder, the late Peter Hladun, brought together a group of promising young dancers in 1962. Hand-picked from the Ukrainian National Federation School of Dance, the eager and dedicated students soon developed into one of the most exciting Ukrainian dance ensembles in Canada.
From its Winnipeg roots, Rusalka has expanded its horizon to reach out to an ever-widening audience. Major tours throughout Asia, Europe, North America, and Ukraine, along with performances for heads of state and royalty, have placed Rusalka among the most widely recognized Ukrainian dance groups in the world.
Today and every day, Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble stands with Ukraine. Слава Україні!
RUSALKA UNF SCHOOL OF DANCE
In 2014, the longest running Ukrainian dance school in Manitoba, UNF School of Dance, partnered with the Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble. Under the artistic direction and management of Rusalka, the Rusalka UNF School of Dance offers high caliber instruction and education in the art of Ukrainian folk dance. The Rusalka UNF School of Dance focuses on the fundamental principles of dance training, building a solid foundation for the command and development of technique and artistic expression. The highly trained faculty at the school of dance consider it a privilege to educate, inspire, and share the love of this beautiful art form with their dancers. So much so that many of the students of Rusalka UNF
School of Dance eventually become the Rusalka dancers of tomorrow.
The Rusalka UNF School of Dance commits to the preservation, education, appreciation, and participation of Ukrainian folk dance as a contribution to our cultural landscape in Manitoba. Rusalka UNF School of Dance provides a positive, motivational, and welcoming place for all dancers to achieve their artistic goals and dreams.
WE STAND WITH UKRAINE ALWAYS AND FOREVER!
Glory to Ukraine! Cлава Україні!
SELKIRK AND DISTRICT UKRAINIAN SCHOOL OF DANCE
Selkirk & District Ukrainian Dance School Inc was formed in 1971 under the leadership of the late Mary Slogan. There were just 34 students and 3 instructors who practiced out of Holy Eucharist Hall in Selkirk.
In 1979, from Selkirk & District Ukrainian Dance School Inc, a senior group evolved and later became their own organization. They are known today as Troyanda, meaning “rose”. This group performs publicly and has traveled extensively across Canada, The United States, Ukraine, Croatia, and South America.
Our school and our dancers continue to seek the opportunities to perform outside their regular events. The opportunity to perform and travel is a wonderful experience for our dancers that creates lasting memories of their youth.
This past year, Selkirk & District celebrated a milestone anniversary of 50 years! They are thankful to all current and alumni dancers, parents and families for the commitment, dedication and love shown over the last 50 years.
Today, the aim of our organization is to promote the appreciation and preservation of Ukrainian cultural traditions as a contributor to the development of Canada’s mosaic culture. We pride ourselves in pursuing and maintaining our Ukrainian heritage in our dances, music and costumes.
SELO UKRAINIAN DANCERS
“Selo” is the Ukrainian word for “village.” The name “Selo Ukrainian Dancers” is perfect for the group who had its humble beginnings in a village… the village of Anola, Manitoba. The Selo Ukrainian Dancers are proud to be celebrating their 34th year!
The troupe has blossomed to nearly 100 eager performers from across southern Manitoba. The energetic performers have truly become one of Manitoba’s quality homegrown multicultural talents.
From elegant turns, spins and lifts, to acrobatic leaps and high kicks, Selo’s stage performance incorporates the many different regions of Ukraine, combining them into a breathtaking performance. The group’s instructors are: Hannah Picklyk, Bonnie Picklyk, Rod Picklyk
Discover the energy and emotion of the Selo Ukrainian Dancers… exhilarating dances accented by exquisite costumes and diverse music. This celebration of movement creates a vibrant spectacle for all audiences to enjoy. The Selo Ukrainian Dancers hope you enjoy their performance as much as they enjoy performing it for you!!
SOPILKA UKRAINIAN DANCE SCHOOL
Sopilka Ukrainian Dance School was founded in 1971 by Vicky Adams and continues to flourish today under the inspired direction of Kristina Frykas.
Approximately 110 students are enrolled at the school during a typical year, ranging in age from five years to adult.
Classes involve a focus on developing technique and artistry, as well as enriching knowledge of Ukrainian culture through dance.
For three consecutive years, Sopilka was awarded the Top Ukrainian Dance School at the Manitoba Ukrainian Dance Festival.
Sopilka’s Performing Ensemble has travelled to Dauphin Vegreville, and Ukraine.
The dancers of Sopilka are very excited to be performing at Folklorama once again!
TROYANDA UKRAINIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE
Troyanda respects and preserves Ukrainian culture, history, and tradition through the art of dance. Since 1979, the Ensemble is honoured to have collaborated with many notable Canadian and Ukrainian artists to develop an extensive repertoire representing the rich and diverse regions of Ukraine. Under the artistic direction of Mr. Paul Doroniuk and creative direction of Mrs. Jenn Doroniuk, Troyanda pushes creative boundaries, recognizing the interconnection of Ukrainian and Canadian culture.
The passion and dedication of Troyanda’s members is unparalleled. This commitment creates a supportive atmosphere for talented dancers to grow in their skills and artistry while deepening the connection to their ancestral roots. Each dancer performs with their soul, inviting audiences worldwide to fall in love with Troyanda.
VITRETZ UKRAINIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE
(Bio to come!)
ZAVIRUKHA UKRAINIAN DANCE SCHOOL
Founded in 1970, and located in the heart of Transcona, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Zavirukha Ukrainian Dance School celebrates Ukrainian Culture through dance.
The name Zavirukha refers to an intense blizzard or snowstorm, most commonly occurring in the Prairies of Canada.
We welcome dancers of all ages and experience. Our school has set out to inspire dancers to share their love of Ukrainian Dance with the greater community.
Zavirukha is proud to have celebrated Ukrainian culture and dance for over 50 years, and always enjoys the privilege to perform on Folklorama’s stage.
