Dance groups to tour in Israel and Ukraine

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This article was published 08/07/2019 (2595 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Two folkloric dance groups are showcasing their talent and culture on an international tour.

Together, Chai Folk Ensemble and Rusalka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble are travelling to Israel and Ukraine to  dance in the countries they each represent.

The dance ensembles left on June 30 and will spend nine days in each country. They will perform at the Karmiel Dance Festival in Israel, and in Truskavets in Ukraine. They are also holding workshops in both countries to help promote unity and cultural understanding. 

“Rusalka and Chai’s love for their cultures runs deep. There is a deep respect between the groups for their individual styles but also for the similarities between them. The history of working with Chai dates back 20 years, and the relationship has continued to grow and will continue to grow into the future. We have enjoyed every moment on the way,” Amy Yakimoski, an alumni who is travelling with the groups, said.

The Israeli and Ukrainian dances share similar movements, and according to both groups, part of Israeli music was influenced by Eastern European immigrants from Russia and Ukraine. In 1999, the two groups performed together for the first time and realized that their performances complemented each other. Now, the ensembles have developed a full show, with original choreography and live music that will be launched during this international tour.

“This tour is important to us. We are performing with one of our closest friends on the international stage for the first time. We are sharing this collaboration in the hopes of inspiring others to do the same,” Yakimoski added.

Chai artistic director David Vamos described the experience as the “tour of a lifetime,” and explained that for more than 55 years their organizations have brought the best of Jewish and Ukrainian folk music to Winnipeg. He said he is ecstatic to have the opportunity to take their collaborative work to international audiences.

“Now more than ever, it’s vital for community organizations like Chai and Rusalka to work together and help one another keep their cultures alive and thriving,” he said. “We must work together to keep our cultural identities alive and thriving, and through this tour, that is exactly what we will accomplish.” 

The show mixes performances from both groups as well as exclusive choreographies that combine Ukrainian and Israeli folk dances and music.

Chai and Rusalka are back in Winnipeg on July 20 and are holding a homecoming concert on Sept. 8 and 9 at the Seven Oaks Performing Arts Centre.