STURGIS - The Barveenok Ukrainian Dance Club continued the tradition of showcasing the Ukrainian culture through its spring concert held in Sturgis on April 24.
Lecia Chalupiak kicked off the concert with a few supportive words for the dancers and families in the Ukraine. The national anthems for both Canada and Ukraine were played followed by the welcome dance known as the Pryvit done by club members.
The intermediate duo of Allie Babiuk and Eva Romanchuk danced a Hutzul followed by the adult dancers who performed a Bukovyna dance. Adult dancers were: Loranda Shuba, Sandra Johnson, Jerilyn Radawetz, Kaeley Neitling, Brandi Arneson and Tara Romanchuk. They also danced two Poltava dances later in the concert.
Josie Moekerk, Sophie Storoschuk, Samaira Hartl, Blake Beatty, Nicholas Chalupiak and Ayden Borus were the youngest dancers, and performed two Poltava dances.
Lindy Romanchuk performed a solo Transcarpathian dance.
Pietra and Louise Damaceno also performed two novice Poltava dances.
The Norquay Rosa adult dancers performed a guest dance. Dancers were: Kim Gulka, Amanda Holinaty, Tara Romanchuk, Megan Holodniuk and Mikaela Twerdoclib.
Sisters, Kylie Babiuk and Allie Babiuk shared a family Poltava duet.
Junior dancers Lily Beatty, Lindy Romanchuk and Maycee Johnson performed a Transcarpathian dance and a Poltava dance during the concert.
Heather Gawrelitza gave a special presentation as she officially retired two original Ukrainian dance costumes from the previous Stenen Barveenok Dance club. The boy and girl Hutzul costumes were hand sewn and donated to the Sturgis Station House Museum to preserve them for future generations to enjoy.
At intermission lunch was served courtesy of Preeceville Shop Easy.
Eva Romanchuk performed a Volyn solo dance after intermission.
Maycee Johnson received a five-year plaque that was presented by Sandra Johnson, president of the club.
The club members, joined by the audience, paused for a minute while a prayer was said for Ukraine.
The concert concluded with a finale performed by all the dancers and their instructor Eric Sliva.
The 50/50 draw proceeds were donated to Nashi House and Cobblestone Freeway Foundation. Winner of the 50/50 draw Dwight Greba donated his portion back and each charity will receive $262.50.
