3 minute read
Kaleidoscope of Ukrainian Entertainment
Kaleidoscope of Ukrainian Entertainment
Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent
The dazzling colours, brilliant choreography, and energetic spirit showcased the strength of professional Ukrainian dancers and the distinctive voices of Ukrainian musicians at the Grandstand Shows during the 52nd Annual Pysanka Festival on July 4, 5, and 6.
The dances and music were a testament to the experiences, emotions, and stories from the lives of many generations of Ukrainians. They were a pure reflection of the joy of being alive and celebrating heritage and culture.
The audience was wowed by twirling dancers, intricate foot and arm movements, horizontal twists and body lifts, graceful and bouncy movements, and soulful and energetic singing and instrumental playing.
The entertainers were Volya Ukrainian Dance Ensemble, Auda, Viter Ukrainian Dancers and Folk Choir, Vyshyvanka, Studia Shumka, Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble, Lastivka Ukrainian Choir and Orchestra, ShockolaD, Feyeria Bandura Group, and more.
Rhythmic and engaged energy was intense when young and old folks from the audience got up to dance to the finale performances at the Grandstand.
The MultiPlex Centre also had music and dancing entertainment which featured the lively performances from The New Lumberjacks Band, Mason Mochoruk and Kiera Strasky, Polka Ramblers, The Sparkling Tones, Svitlo, Kikkino Northern Lites, Tryzub School of Ukrainian Dance, Mryia Dance Group, Boyan Ukrainian Dancers, Tanya Navolska-Bandura, Brandon Hachkowski and Ukrainian Tradition Band, Boyan Ukrainian Dancers, Mryia Dance Group, and Neech.
The audience issued a thunderous applause after each of these performances.
For people who wanted to hone their skills, the dance competitions was the place where dancers could develop their blending technique, artistry, and personal growth while the audience was treated to watching their fine talents.
As well, a time to test a person’s creative or physical skills was offered at the three fun Ukrainian-inspired challenges at the Pysanka Games, where participants rushed to make the best Pysanka, toss the harvest in a bucket, and try out a festival-themed puzzle with a Ukrainian twist.
In the evening was the Zabava, which means fun, entertainment, and a party in Ukrainian, and indeed it will be with its high-energy Ukrainian music and polkas from renowned Ukrainian bands, which enticed people to dance through the night.
