The Hafford Cheremka dance club held its annual end-of-year dance recital March 18 in the Hafford Central School gymnasium. The club was established 40 years ago and began with 67 students, some of whom later advanced to become instructors. Today that tradition continues as local families register their children in an opportunity to experience Ukrainian traditional dance. To have successful students, an organization must have an enthusiastic, committed instructor.
Shannon Gabrush, an extremely dedicated Ukrainian dance instructor, travelled weekly to provide dance lessons and guidance for these aspiring dancers. She was committed to assisting the beginner, junior, intermediate and senior dancers learn the steps and meaning behind each dance. She choreographed the performances, which showcased the advancing skill, talent and agility of these youthful dancers.
Each performer took their passion to dance and showcased the power and beauty of Ukrainian dance. Energetic jumping, quick footwork, fast spins that caused the dresses and ribbons to display their color, high leg kicks and lifts that demonstrated unity and strength were well received by the audience. The audience was captivated as these vibrant dancers between the ages of six and 17 performed with such passion and excitement.
Performances included solo, multiple and group dances. Beginner dancers are Jessica Rice, Ineka Schensney, Reese Cherwinski and Hailey Prystupa. Junior performers consisted of Lonnie Yasieniuk, Carsen Derksen, Chelsea Boyko, Jaylynn Taylor, Courtney Yasieniuk, Kristen Welkie and Amber Toews. Intermediate students consist of Cabri Tanchak, Leak Kohut, Justin Yasieniuk, Taylinn Cherwinski, Brooke Kowalchuk, Jerie Yasieniuk and Mitchell Tanchak.
Senior dancers are Allanna Hawrysh, Frankie Yasieniuk, Scott Markewich, Tyler Yasieniuk, Joseph Tanchak, Kolten Yasieniuk, Michael Horner, Ashley Kowalchuk, Megan Jones, Rayleen Roth, Erica Horner, Andrew Derksen, Marina Rice, and Jenny Markewich.
Special dance feature for the evening was the performance of traditional First Nations powwow dancing. Kyle, Lauren and Ethan Bear from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation have been competing in numerous powwow dance competitions. The youth combined the skill and agility with the colorful display of feathers and ribbons, the sound of jingles and the twists and turns to demonstrate a First Nations' traditional dance.
The staff of Hafford Special Care Centre took the time and effort to transport 14 residents to the school for the evening performance. By the expressions on the seniors' faces, it was a very enjoyable evening for all.
The evening concluded with coffee and doughnuts.
