After a year filled with dedication and passion for dance, the Vermilion Ukrainian Cultural Association dazzled the audience with its highly anticipated 2024 Year End Dance Recital. Held at the Alumni Hall Theatre within Lakeland College, the event unfolded on April 6, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of family, friends, and community members eager to witness the culmination of months of hard work and commitment.
The stage came alive as four distinct dance groups, spanning ages from 3 to 40 years old, showcased their talents starting promptly at 1:30 p.m. The audience was treated to a mesmerizing display of Ukrainian cultural heritage, brought to life through graceful movements and vibrant costumes.
Kicking off the performances was Emma Stelmaschuk, captivating the audience with a breathtaking Buko solo that left onlookers spellbound. The Adult group, featuring dancers Meghan Anderson, Christina Frankiw, Kayla Stelmaschuk, Braden Musyjk, and Mindy Yaceyko, then took center stage, enchanting spectators with their masterful rendition of the Carpathian Suite, characterized by intricate footwork and rhythmic precision.
The Transcarpathian dance, a representation of Ukrainian Zakarpattia’s rich culture and traditions, followed suit, as performers Ayla Hawryluk, Soffeah Headon, Koss Headon, Rachelle Alison Jardinico, Archie Newberry, Olivia Pawluk, Sophie Pawluk, and Ty Stelmaschuk showcased their prowess through sweeping movements and lively footwork, decorated in eye-catching colourful attire.
Jaden Boe, Payton Smith, and Emma Stelmaschuk then took the stage for the Hutzul dance, setting the scene for Ayla Hawryluk’s captivating Transcarpathian solo. The Zirka group rounded out the first half of the recital with a spirited performance of the Volyn, leading into a brief intermission that provided attendees with a chance to stretch their legs and mingle.
Returning from the intermission, the audience was treated to a delightful duet by Emma and Kayla Stelmaschuk, who mesmerized with their Podillian performance. Group 1, comprised of Remy Fisher, Tasyn Milot, Cleopatra Newberry, Charlotte Pawluk, and Norah Wyynnyk, then graced the stage with their rendition of the Poltava, followed by Group 2’s captivating Buko dance.
The Adult group once again showcased their talents with a powerful performance of the Poltava before the final act of the afternoon, where the Zirka group delivered a rendition of ‘We Are Wind,’ leaving the audience in awe of their skill and passion.
As the last notes of music faded away, the spotlight turned to recognize the dancers and instructors whose dedication and hard work made the event possible.
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