You will find vendor kiosks: delicious authentic Ukrainian food and beverages, beautiful souvenirs, interactive pavilions, and more. This year you can also enjoy SIDEWALK SALE shopping at the local Bloor West Village businesses. There is a midway for kids and youth. Take in the colourful parade on Saturday morning at 11am and a new attraction this year is the Film Festival being held at the Runnymede Library (Sat) and The Village Playhouse (Sun).
The information listed below is subject to change, visit the TUF website for the most up to date information.
Festival Location: Bloor West Village, Toronto, between Jane St. and Glendowynne Rd. Ride The Rocket, Take The TTC, arrive at Jane station or Runnymede station on the Bloor-Danforth subway line.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2011
Festival hours: 5 pm - 12 midnight
Main Festival Stage Show begins at 7:00 pm!
McDonalds FREE Coffee Giveaway, tonight only!
7:00 pm Desna
Lemko Tower (Lemkivshchyna)
Stephanie Hutka
Suzirya (Calgary)
The Letter (Edmonton)*
Edna Star
Roman Danylo (Vancouver)
Luba Goy
Pyx Band
Lyra (Winnipeg)
10:30 pm Street Zabava – Featuring: HRIM (New York)
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2011
Festival hours: 9 am - 12 midnight
11:00 am Parade
Official Ceremonies and Main Festival Stage Show at 12:20 pm
12:20 pm Ukraina
The Letter (Edmonton)*
Edna Star
Brian Cherwick (Newfoundland)
Suzirya (Calgary)
Akord Men’s Choir (Ottawa)
Lemko Tower (Lemkivshchyna)
Olya Fryz (New York)
Skopa Band
Korinya Folk Band (New York)
Arkan
Lyra (Winnipeg)
2:00 - 3:10 pm Toronto Ukrainian Festival Film Festival, Runnymede Library
New Home in the West, Director - Dallas Jones
Ukrainian Winter Holiday, Director - James Beveridge
Ted Baryluk Grocery, Director - John Paskievich
Kurelek, Director - William Pettigrew
3:30 – 4:30 pm Mandry Autograph signing session at Ukrainian Credit Union on Armadale Ave.
4:00 pm Vesnianka
Crazy Voda Band
Arkan
Hrim Band (New York)
Harmonia Trio (Montreal)
Theresa Sokyrka (Montreal)
Tyt I Tam (Saskatoon)
Barvinok
Suzirya (Calgary)
Zubrivka
4:00 - 5:40 pm Toronto Ukrainian Festival Film Festival, Runnymede Library
Laughter in My Soul, Director - Halya Kuchmij
The Fullness of Time: Ukrainian Stories from Alberta, Director - Halya Kuchmij
The Strongest Man in the World, Director - Halya Kuchmij
6:30 - 7:20 pm Toronto Ukrainian Festival Film Festival, Runnymede Library
One Perogy at a Time, Director - Larissa Malarek
7:00 pm Akord Men’s Choir (Ottawa)
Roman Danylo (Vancouver)
The Letter (Edmonton)*
Edna Star
Brian Cherwick (Newfoundland)
Barvinok
Luba Goy
Suzirya (Calgary)
9:00 pm MANDRY (Kyiv, Ukraine)**
10:30 pm Street Zabava – Featuring: Tyt I Tam Band
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2011
Festival hours: 10:30 am - 7 pm
10:30 am Ecumenical Church Service at Main Stage
11:00 am - 12:40 pm Toronto Ukrainian Festival Film Festival, The Village Playhouse
Leo Mol in Light and Shadow, Director - Elise Swerhone
Wanda Koop: In Her Eyes, Director - Gordon McLennan
Main Festival Stage Show begins at 12:00 pm!
12:00 pm YOUTH PROGRAM
Ukraina School of Arts
Olya Fryz (New York)
Hanusia Tanczak
Nicholas and Michael Panczenko
Chaika Dancers (Hamilton)
Marko Dwulit
Korinya Folk Band (New York)
Theodore Pucak
Ukrainian Academy of Dance
Helen Guryn
Vocal Youth Group Melodia
Natasha Dobriansky, Jeremy Hucal,and Chiara Ciccone
1:30 - 3:20 pm Toronto Ukrainian Festival Film Festival, The Village Playhouse
Teach Me to Dance, Director - Anne Wheeler
Folk!, Director - Roxy Toporowych
2:00 pm Suzirya (Calgary)
Harmonia Trio (Montreal)
The Letter (Edmonton)*
Edna Star
Brian Cherwick (Newfoundland)
Lemko Tower (Lemkivshchyna)
Luba Goy
Theresa Sokyrka (Montreal)
Tyt I Tam (Saskatoon)
Lyra (Winnipeg)
Barvinok – Finale HOPAK
5:30 pm Closing Ceremonies
7:00 pm Festival ends
MCs: Roman Brytan, Roman Danylo, Ryan Boyko, Justine Lewkowicz, Sophy Yusypovych (Youth), Christina Bojeczko (Youth)
Runnymede Stage – Entertainment all three days hosted by the Zirka Band
Ukrainian Dance Lessons with Desna – Saturday and Sunday
** MANDRY (Kyiv, Ukraine) – sponsored by Ukrainian Credit Union Limited, Aerosvit Airlines, and Four Point Sheraton, Lakeshore
* The Letter (Edmonton) – lead corporate sponsor Buduchnist Credit Union, with assistance from Celebrate Ontario and support of Canadian First World War Internment Recognition Fund
Discover Ukrainian culture in Canada
2011 Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival Youth Performer Biographies
*** Youth Performance at 12 noon on Sunday Sept 18 at Jane Stage ***
Note: Performer listing is subject to change, visit the TUF website for the most up to date information and performance times.
Chaika Performing Ensemble
The Chaika Performing Ensemble has thrilled audiences’ worldwide and won recognition and praise with their memorable performances throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. Created in 1957 under the auspices of the Hamilton Branch of the Ukrainian National Federation, Chaika has been dedicated to the development of Ukrainian folk song and dance. In addition to Chaika’s dancing accomplishments, the ensemble has also achieved fame for its choral work and has had two releases. Chaika is celebrating 54 years of song and dance performances. The school, comprised of 75 performers ranging in age from 6 to 30, continues to help preserve Canada’s multicultural mosaic.
Christina Bojeczko, Master of Ceremonies for the Youth Segment
Christina is now entering her final year of high school at Richview Collegiate Institute and is looking forward to the challenges of university. She obtained her Matura from the Ukrainian Saturday School program. She is an active member of Plast, a scouting organization and is a councilor to a group of young girls. She enjoys tennis, water-skiing, and cross-country skiing. Christina also enjoys dancing and was a former member of the Yavir Dance Ensemble. She loves to cook and baking is her specialty. She also has an interest in and flair for fashion and design. She is an avid reader and has a lively sense of humour. Christina enjoys matching wits with her dad and engaging him in debates. She also gives her mother, a real estate agent, helpful insights regarding design, colours and presentation.
Hanusia Tanczak
Hanusia is a student at Josyf Cardinal Slipyj Ukrainian School in Etobicoke. She is 10 years old and loves to sing. Also, she studies piano and takes vocal classes. She started performing at the age of 6 at festivals and different Ukrainian events. Also, she performed at the 21st International Festival of Religious Songs in Mississauga in 2010. She performed in 2009 at the Bloor West Village Festival together with her brother Volodya. She loves Ukraine and has a passion for Ukrainian songs and culture. Hanusia is part of a Ukrainian drama group called "Theatrical- Musical Studio, Oliynyka"
Helen Guryn
Helen has been singing since she was really young. She took piano classes for 8 years, and learned how to play a guitar on her own. Her dream is to become a world-wide performer. She has won many different singing competitions. Next year she is planning to apply for American Idol. She has written a lot of songs and recorded them in a music studio.
Korinya Family Band
KORINYA (“Roots” in English) are a young, dynamic 5th generation Ukrainian-American family band that has been performing traditional Ukrainian Folk Music at festivals in the US and Canada since 2005. In the summer of 2010, KORINYA organized a charity tour throughout Ukraine playing at Kraina Mrij festivals in Kyiv and Lviv, visiting and playing for orphans and the elderly. They live on an herb farm close to Soyuzivka in upstate New York with sheep and goats. The band consists of the Shepko-Hamilton kids, Roxolyana (16) violin, Zoya (15) cello, Stefan (14) drums/sopilka, Alexandra (13) viola, Zorian (6) telenka/drums. KORINYA does workshops in folk traditions/crafts, marionette shows, and interactive Ukrainian dance in their local community and beyond. KORINYA feels that music is a way to ground and connect people, send out positive energy, and do good for others. KORINYA recorded two CDs in 2010, Korinya and Korinya Kids and they will be available for sale at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival.
Mykola and Mihailo Panczenko
Mykola and Mihailo Panczenko are brothers who have previously participated in both the Toronto Ukrainian Festival and the Ukrainian Young Talent Festival. These singers both attend St. Sofia School; Mykola is in grade 8 and Mihailo is in grade 6. They both take karate and like to play hockey and soccer. They also play musical instruments; Mykola recently switched from the piano to the flute and Mihailo has been playing the bandura for over two years.
Natasha Dobriansky, Jeremy Hucal, Chiara Ciccone
11 year old Natasha Dobriansky takes vocal and piano lessons at the Merriam School of Music and dances with the Barvinok Dance Ensemble. She is also working with renowned vocal coach Mr. Ian Garratt at the Cdn Academy of Vocal Music. Natasha is the recipient of many gold medals. She has a role in the up coming production of “The Sound of Music” being held this fall at the Rose Theatre in Brampton. 14 year old Yarema Hucal is enrolled in an enriched piano program and is studying the Royal Conservatory of Music ARCT piano repertoire. He also plays the clarinet, bass clarinet and percussion and has a passion for composing his own music. Yarema has won many awards and scholarships. He has been selected as the featured solo pianist for the Halton Youth Symphony. 10 year old Chiara Ciccone has been dancing over 7 years. She was awarded the 'Most Potential Dancer' award at her dance school. Chiara has been accepted into the Company program at Performers Dance Studio in Mississauga.
Mark Dwulit
Marko is a fun loving 11 year old boy who loves to sing. He takes singing lessons from Oksana Zelinovska. His favourite sport is hockey. He has performed at various venues including St. Mary's church, St. Mykolaya, Ukrainian Talent show, Polish Talent Show, 3 times at Veselka, at Hawkestone, and in Cuba.
Melodia
"Melodia" is a vocal group made up of young singers who are dedicated to the performing of popular songs composed by contemporary artists of Ukraine. In existence since the fall of 2005, the group consists of 9 members, ages 8-15, from Mississauga and surrounding communities: Theodore Pucak, Roman Pucak, Olena Pankiw, Natalia Terek, Alexa Gobosz, Bohdan Tyvodar, Marko Dwulit, Marko Czupiel and Andrijko Semchyshyn. The singers perform both in group settings and as skilled solo performers. The group is under the auspices of St. Mary's Ukrainian Church in Mississauga, Ontario. "Melodia" participates at all religious church events throughout the year including Yarmarok, Christmas and Easter celebrations, and Carrassauga. They also perform at the annual Ukrainian Music Festival where they win top awards, and at the annual Toronto Ukrainian Festival. They have also performed at the "Zoloty Klen" festival in Acton. The artistic director of the group is Oksana Zelinska-Shevchuk.
Olya Fryz
Multi-talented Olya Fryz is a Ukrainian-American recording artist with 4 popular CD's, including "Shcho za hamir-A Collection of Ukrainian Songs for Children" and Olya's most recent release "Vozveselimsia-A Ukrainian Christmas Collection", both of which were produced by the incredibly gifted producer/arranger/musician Slau Halatyn of NYC. These CD's are great to listen to, fun to sing along with and they capture nostalgic moments of our Ukrainian spirit & traditions! Olya's 2 other CD's "Zhaday" (Remember) and "Zaprosy u sny" (Invite Me) feature Ukrainian folk & contemporary songs in an easy listening style with beautiful arrangements. Olya entertains audiences throughout the U.S. & Canada at various festivals, interactive children's shows, bandura camps, cabarets, & multi-ethnic concerts with a warm, engaging manner. Her music is known throughout the world! Visit www.olyafryz.com for more info or go to iTunes and type in Olya Fryz!
Sofiya Yusypovych - Master of Ceremonies for the Youth Segment
15 year old Sofiya Yusypovych was born in Toronto, Ontario but she spends half the year in Lviv, Ukraine, where she is home schooled by her mother – Oksana Wynnyckyj. The other half of the year, she spends in Toronto where she attends a public high school. In 2011, Sofiya received a diploma from a special fine arts after school program in Lviv. Sofiya is also interested in music and dance. Her interest in music was influenced by her father – Myron Yusypovych. She used to play the piano and now plays the flute. Hip-hop dance classes have recently become a big part of her life too. Sofiya also has many different hobbies such as horseback riding, creative writing (you can find a few of her news articles on plast.org) and art photography (you may also see some of her work on plast.org). She is also a very active plastunka. Sofiya sees Plast as a great way to get different life experiences and skills of working with different people.
Theodore Pucak
Theodore has been singing since the age of 5. He has performed at many festivals, including the Toronto Ukrainian Festival, Golden Maple Festival, Carassauga Festival of Cultures, and in competitions such as the Toronto Ukrainian Music Festival, where he received scholarships and performed at the finalist concerts 4 years in a row, once as a pianist and 3 times as a vocalist. He is also an actor, and has being performing on stage in musicals such as Oklahoma!, The Sound of Music, The Wizard of Oz, and in movies and on TV.
The Ukrainian Academy of Dance & Arkan Dance Company
The Ukrainian Academy of Dance was founded in 1987 by Danovia Stechishin and has trained over 1000 dancers. Arkan and the Academy rehearse at The Ukrainian National Federation Building in Toronto - UNO, a professionally- equipped dance studio where ballet, jazz, modern and Ukrainian dance is taught for dancers aged 3 to adult. Arkan Dance Company, as Ukrainian-Canadian ambassadors, has traveled to Florida (1995, 2005), New York (1995, 2000, 2008, 2009), Taiwan (1996), Brazil (1997), China (1999), Drummondville, Quebec (2001, 2005), Dauphin, Manitoba (1998, 2007), Ukraine (2003), Mexico (2004), Turkey (2006), Italy (2009) and Korea (2010). This year they celebrate their 25th anniversary and will be performing in March in Disneyworld, Florida and at the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair. For further information please visit: www.ukrainianacademyofdance.com or www.arkandancecompany.com.
The Ukrainian School of Dance (YKPAIHA)
The Ukrainian School of Dance, established by its Artistic Directors, Alexandra and Valeri Movtchan, is one of the finest schools of its kind within the greater Toronto area. The school offers student-oriented instructional sessions and serves as the base of the “Ukraina” Dance Ensemble. This school's emphasis is the development of both the artistic and technical abilities of students with the aim to promote a superior level of traditional Ukrainian dance. The school boasts a unique repertoire utilizing a variety of regional styles and costumes. The "Ukraina" Dance Ensemble embodies all of the qualities deeply embedded within Ukrainian culture --- incredible passion, eternal striving for perfection, a love of freedom, and the rare ability to express oneself through music, movement, traditional rituals and customs. Passion makes this dance troupe unique --- a passion for Ukrainian culture, a passion for dance and, above all, a passion for the human spirit.
2011 Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival Entertainment Line-Up
Note: Performer listing is subject to change, visit the TUF website for the most up to date information and performance times.
2011 Feature Performer from Ukraine, MANDRY
Through the generous sponsorship of UKRAINIAN CREDIT UNION this year's headline performer from Ukraine will be MANDRY. Mandry captivates a diverse audience of all age groups with their unique blend of traditional Ukrainian folk music with modern rhythms, elements of city romance and French ballads with a dash of reggae, blues and rock. Mandry, founded in 1997, is spearheaded by well known singer/song writer Serhiy Fomenko and includes Leonid Bieley, Serhiy Chehodayev, Andriy Zanko and Salman Salmanov Mamed-Ohly. They have performed at Festivals across Europe and most notably performed in 2004 during Ukraine's Orange Revolution in Independence Square. Additional sponsorship for the group is provided by Four Points Sheraton Hotel.
Mandry will perform on Saturday September 17th at 9:00pm on the main stage.
Verkhovyna Ukrainian Song & Dance Ensemble
The Verkhovyna Ukrainian Song & Dance Ensemble is the cultural ambassador of the Edmonton Branch of the Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM). The Ensemble is comprised of The Verkhovyna Choir, the Dunai Ukrainian Dancers, and the Verkhovyna School of Ukrainian Dance. Verkhovyna's goal is to promote the Ukrainian culture and increase awareness of the richness of Ukrainian dance and choral performing. Verkhovyna strives to enable its members, audiences, and the greater community to establish a greater appreciation for Ukrainian dance, culture, music, traditions and folklore. A broad spectrum of the Ukrainian community is represented within the ensemble, from Ukrainians new to Canada to fourth generation Ukrainian Canadians. The Ensemble has been proudly delighting audiences locally and throughout North America for decades, and has had successful performance tours to Eastern Europe (2009), Central America (2004) and South America (1999). The Verkhovyna Ukrainian Song and Dance Ensemble is proud to present “The Letter”, an emotional and colourful musical and dance journey through the pages of Ukrainian Canadian History. The piece is dedicated to those whose determination and accomplishments helped develop this young country of Canada and ensure that Ukrainian Canadians forever became an integral part of the tapestry of Canadian culture over the past 120 years. This is their story……..the story of hardships and triumphs; of the creation of a vibrant and determined ethnic community thriving beyond the borders of its homeland.
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AKORD - Ukrainian Men's Choir of Ottawa
AKORD the Ukrainian Mens Choir of Ottawa, has been an active part of the Canadian cultural scene for almost twenty years. The name AKORD is symbolic of both the richness of Ukrainian choral tradition and the melodious quality of this four-part choir. The Choirs active annual continues to broaden the Canadian publics awareness of various Ukrainian choral masters. AKORD receives private donations and proceeds from CD sales to cover Choir operations. In addition, AKORD has received generous support from the City of Ottawa Arts Fund, The Buduchnist Credit Union Foundation and the Ukrainian Canadian Foundation of Taras Shevchenko. Olya Katruszenko, is the music director, since 1994. www.akordchoir.ca
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Arkan Dance Company
Formed in 1987, and celebrating 25 years this year, Arkan Dance Company consists of elite dancers hand-picked from the Ukrainian Academy of Dance by the Artistic Director, Danovia Stechishin. Arkan Dance Company, as Ukrainian-Canadian ambassadors, has traveled to Florida (1995, 2007), New York (1995, 2000, 2008, 2009), Taiwan (1996), Brazil (1997), China (1999), Drummondville, Quebec (2001, 2005), Dauphin, Manitoba (1998, 2007), Ukraine (2003), Mexico (2004), Turkey (2006), Italy (2009), Korea (2010) and to Disneyworld and St. Petersburg Festival in 2012. The Arkan Professionals, recently founded in 2010, comprises a selected group of seasoned, veteran, adult dancers who perform professionally and frequently at many weddings, community, corporate and government events in Ontario. Please visit www.arkandancecompany.com for more information.
Barvinok Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
For 43 years Barvinok has been providing instruction to dancers in the church hall of the Dormition of the Mother of God Church (St. Mary's) in Mississauga. Barvinok has represented the Ukrainian Community of Mississauga on local, regional, national and international levels. You can start learning about Barvinok by exploring our website.
Several decades ago, Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School, with just a handful of dedicated dancers, had its humble beginnings in the church basement of St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mississauga. Just as Mississauga has grown into a major city, Barvinok has flourished. Today, Barvinok provides instruction to 400 students of different ages. The school is committed to teaching Ukrainian traditional dance. It is devoted to nurturing Ukrainian heritage through dance and dedicated to expand the cultural diversity and strengthen the Ukrainian identity within the community.
Baturyn Concert Marching Band
Since its inception in 1966, The Baturyn Concert Marching Band, sponsored by the Ukrainian Youth Association of Toronto, has not only continued to be very active in the Ukrainian community, but has taken on the role as ambassadors to other cultural and community groups. The name “BATURYN” was adopted from the ancient Mazepa capital of Ukraine. With its music, the Baturyn Concert Marching Band shares its Ukrainian culture and traditions with audiences whereverit performs. In the past, the band has toured across Canada, the United States of America, and Europe, including Ukraine. Last year, Baturyn had the honour to represent and participate at the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the birth and the 50th anniversary of the death of S. Bandera in Munich, Germany.
Petrusia Chornopyski - Conductor
Borys Ostapienko
Borys is a 17 year old from Toronto, Ontario. He began taking bandura lessons from Victor Mishalow, a prominent exponent of the instrument in 1999. At the age of 10, he became a member of the Canadian Bandurist Capella. Borys has won numerous awards for his bandura performances at the annual Etobicoke, Ukrainian and Kiwanis Music Festivals held in Toronto. In 2010, Borys was the first Canadian born bandurist to compete in the Hnat Khotkevych Fifth International Competition of performers on Ukrainian folk instruments held in Kharkiv, Ukraine. His performances were outstanding and he received diplomas for being the youngest and finest performer of Hnat Khotkevych's compositions. He has performed in many festivals across Canada, the United States, and in Ukraine. He released his first album in January 2011.
Christopher Dunham, Edna Star
Christopher Dunham has appeared in the Halifax Summer Opera Workshop's production of Menotti's "The Consul", UWOpera's productions of Weill's "Street Scene", Penhorwoods "Too Many Sopranos" and Mozart's "Don Giovanni" and "Le Nozze di Figaro", the Canadian Operatic Arts Academy and in La Musica Lirica productions of Haydn's "Il Mondo Della Luna" and Verdi's "Traviata". Christopher was preparing for summer singing appearances in Italy when his professor approached him with a request to interpret a newly composed song that pays tribute to Ukrainian settlers. Some of the words would be in Ukrainian. The Niagara Falls native: a Masters Music student of Scottish heritage, immediately and enthusiastically said "yes". That song is Edna Star.
Click here for Edna Star Lyrics *With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Crazy Voda
Crazy Voda is a Toronto-based modern day polka band. This five-piece group performs at parties, zabavas, concerts, weddings, and all sorts of other celebrations. Their sound stems from traditional folk music from Ukraine and is highly influenced by the current urban-folk-movement happening in Toronto. The group consists of Mariusz Moskal (vocals, accordion), Mike Romaniak (sopilka, saxophone), Andrew Berezowsky (violin, guitar), Mike Brough (bass), and Alejandro C�edes (percussion). The ability to play both acoustically and amplified provides them with ample opportunity to perform in Toronto's eclectic music scene. Crazy Voda is in the midst of recording their debut EP. The CD will feature traditional folk tunes that we all know, love, and can't get enough of. Come see Crazy Voda performing on the Main Stage and all around the Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival 2011! Check out their website www.crazyvoda.com and follow them on FaceBook www.facebook.com/crazyvoda
Desna Ukrainian Dance Company of Toronto
For more than 36 years, DESNA has been dazzling audiences throughout Canada, the US and abroad with a wide repertoire of Ukrainian dances including Hutsul, Bukovynian, Kozachok, Volyn & Hopak. Under the direction of Virsky's Yuri & Luba Grekov, DESNA presents technically demanding and exhilarating dances accented by exquisite costumes and diverse music. DESNA also contrasts its traditional repertoire with different styles of dance including the Country Dance, Gypsy & Miners. In September 2011, DESNA will be opening a School of Ukrainian Dance with classes for students from 2 years to adult (parents too) in the GTA. For more info about the DESNA School or Company, please e-mail Contact@DESNA.ca or check us out at www.DESNA.ca. The DESNA Ukrainian Dance Company of Toronto is honoured to have the opportunity to perform at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival for the 15th consecutive year!
Dunai Band
The band Dunai is based out of Toronto, Canada. For over two decades, the band has been a cornerstone in the Ukrainian music scene, entertaining audiences throughout Canada and the United States. They have performed at all the major Ukrainian festivals throughout North America and have played at private functions in Los Angeles, New York, Edmonton and San Diego, just to name a few. Dunai’s sound is a culmination of different musical influences each member has brought to the group. The groups members have a diverse background in performing Ukrainian folk, rock, jazz, blues and latin music. The key to the band’s longevity is their passion for performing, writing and arranging music. What has always differentiated Dunai is the success of their original songs. The groups direction is to continue writing original material which expands Ukrainian musical culture, as well as preserve traditional folk songs through their own unique arrangements. The members of Dunai are: Alex Fesiak (keyboards, accordion, lead vocals), Ihor Zowtonizka (guitars, vocals), Steve Sherman (guitars, vocals), Yar Haluk (drums, percussion), and Kevin Goss (saxophones, flute). www.dunai.com
Hrim
Hrim is a Ukrainian band based out of New York City. They are very excited to be back at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival! Since the band's inception in 2005, Hrim has performed at festivals, weddings, zabavas, and other functions throughout North America. Recently, the band performed at the "Hopak in the Park" festival and sold-out zabava in Melbourne, Australia. Hrim is Roman Palylyk, Peter Drobenko, Will Wyatt, Peter Kolinsky, and John Drobenko. Their sound is a mix of traditional Ukrainian polkas, tangos, and waltzes fused with other unique styles. The band released their self-titled debut album in May 2011. To purchase the album, visit CDBaby.com/hrim or search "Hrim" on the iTunes store. The band will be selling the album at the festival and encourage everyone to stop by and say hi. Stay up to date with all things Hrim at www.ReverbNation.com/Hrim, and search Hrim on Facebook and Twitter.
Korinya Family Band
KORINYA (“Roots” in English) are a young, dynamic 5th generation Ukrainian-American family band that has been performing traditional Ukrainian Folk Music at festivals in the US and Canada since 2005. In the summer of 2010, KORINYA organized a charity tour throughout Ukraine playing at Kraina Mrij festivals in Kyiv and Lviv, visiting and playing for orphans and the elderly. They live on an herb farm close to Soyuzivka in upstate New York with sheep and goats. The band consists of the Shepko-Hamilton kids, Roxolyana (16) violin, Zoya (15) cello, Stefan (14) drums/sopilka, Alexandra (13) viola, Zorian (6) telenka/drums. KORINYA does workshops in folk traditions/crafts, marionette shows, and interactive Ukrainian dance in their local community and beyond. KORINYA feels that music is a way to ground and connect people, send out positive energy, and do good for others. KORINYA recorded two CDs in 2010, Korinya and Korinya Kids and they will be available for sale at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival.
Lemko Tower Youth Ensemble
Lemko Tower is a community based song and instrumental group which is driven by enthusiasm and love of their ancestral culture. They formed in 2005 as a part of the Association of Lemko Culture Enthusiasts in Strzelce Krajenskie, Poland. There are 22 members in the ensemble between the ages of 16 and 25. The group has gained popularity at the Ukrainian festivals in Poland thanks to their dynamic performance and modern approach to folk music. They have appeared in almost 200 concerts and perform frequently at the Lemko Vatras in Zdynia and Lugi, Poland. Lemko Tower has recorded several CDs: Christmas Carols (2005), The Scent of the Spring Breeze (2006), Lemko Tower Live in Gorzow (2007) and Spivanochky (2009). Spivanochky won 3rd place in the folk performers' competition Virtualni Husli (Virtual Violins).
Lyra
Lyra has been entertaining audiences across Canada for more than 10 years. Based in Winnipeg, they met and became friends at the St. Andrew's College cultural program. They have performed at many events, including but not limited to local/national PLAST, CYM, and CYMK engagements, Folklorama, and most recently at Ukrainian Orthodox Metropolitans Enthronement. They have recorded, performed, or been members of a variety of Ukrainian Canadian Bands: Sloohai; Taran; Ukrainia; and Zrada. Lyra performs several styles of traditional Ukrainian music including folk, liturgical, and bilij holos, with a growing interest in world music. The ladies are accomplished vocalists and classically trained musicians. They play a variety of instruments including bandura, cello, guitar, piano, violin, and percussion. Their music is soulful and passionate and will catch the attention of any music lover. Lyra is Katrusia Basarab, Sofia Bilozor, and Larissa Klymkiw. www.myspace.com/lyraukrainianmusic
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Olya Fryz
Multi-talented Olya Fryz is a Ukrainian-American recording artist with 4 popular CD's, including "Shcho za hamir-A Collection of Ukrainian Songs for Children" and Olya's most recent release "Vozveselimsia-A Ukrainian Christmas Collection", both of which were produced by the incredibly gifted producer/arranger/musician Slau Halatyn of NYC. These CD's are great to listen to, fun to sing along with and they capture nostalgic moments of our Ukrainian spirit & traditions! Olya's 2 other CD's "Zhaday" (Remember) and "Zaprosy u sny" (Invite Me) feature Ukrainian folk & contemporary songs in an easy listening style with beautiful arrangements. Olya entertains audiences throughout the U.S. & Canada at various festivals, interactive children's shows, bandura camps, cabarets, & multi-ethnic concerts with a warm, engaging manner. Her music is known throughout the world! Visit www.olyafryz.com for more info or go to iTunes and type in Olya Fryz!
PYX
PYX is a contemporary Ukrainian band with both a zabava and a 'show' repertoire. Unlike many other contemporary Ukrainian bands in Canada, PYX, pronounced RUKH, has a show repertoire that includes such genres as punk and hard rock. Drawing lyrical inspiration from such poets as Rylskyi and Oles', the purpose of the band's show performances is to inspire in young Canadian-Ukrainians a love of Ukrainian culture and language. The themes of these songs are diverse: existentialist dilemmas, passionate romances, and rebellion, for example. This is meant to distinguish us from the prototypical, patriotic songs which, though they are important, often overshadow other Ukrainian artistic achievements.
Roman Danylo
Roman Danylo is a headlining stand-up comedian, a top Canadian improviser, a TV and film actor, and a traditional theater actor. He is one of only a handful of comedians to have performed in the prestigious HBO Comedy Festival in Aspen and Montreal’s Just for Laughs Festival in the same year. In Hollywood he starred in the UPN Series 'Off Limits', and has been featured on NBC’s 'Late Friday'. He has appeared in the feature films, 'Duets' with Gwyneth Paltrow, and 'Happy Birthday' with John Goodman. Back home Roman has appeared or starred in several Canadian series including CBC’s 'The Debaters', ‘The Winnipeg and Halifax Comedy Festivals’, 'Comics', 'These Arms of Mine', 'Made in Canada', CTV’s 'Comedy Now', 'Corner Gas', 'The Holmes Show', and many more. Roman starred for five seasons in his own sketch comedy series on CTV and Spike TV called 'Comedy Inc.' Born in Calgary to parents of Ukrainian heritage, Roman currently lives in Vancouver and commutes to LA and Toronto for work.
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Skopa
Skopa is a young and aspiring zabava band that plays Ukrainian folk songs as well as new and classic tunes. The band was created five years ago when Matt Purawec (guitar), Andrew Chachula (drums), and Julian Petelycky (bass) realized their adverse talents and started to cover some energetic tunes. Soon their raw talent was recognized by the Ukrainian community. Skopa has played at various Ukrainian functions such as malankas, zabavas, festivals, fundraisers, etc.. With additions of Nadia Kobelak (vocals) and Borys Brodziuk (keyboard), it allowed the band to expand their musical horizon. If you would like to contact Skopa please e-mail skopa.the.band@gmail.com
Stefanie Hutka
Stefanie Hutka is a twenty-one-year-old Toronto-based, classically-trained violinist. Stefanie is a veteran performer at the Ukrainian Festival. She has successfully completed her ARCT Diploma for Violin Performance with the Royal Conservatory of Music, and performs solo and in ensembles, including orchestral performance with members of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Stefanie has studied under many masters, including Vasyl Popadiuk, who taught and accompanied her for her Royal Conservatory Exams. She also composes, and has performed her compositions at various Toronto festivals and for independent film. Stefanie Hutka is currently a graduate student at the University of Toronto, studying auditory cognitive neuroscience. Learn more about Stefanie Hutka and her musical offerings at www.stringsinmotioninc.com
Suzirya Ukrainian Dance Theatre
The vision began in November 2004. A group of passionate professionally trained dancers came together to form the Suzirya Ukrainian Dance Theatre. Suzirya, meaning a constellation of many stars, is founded on the eloquent fusion of ballet and traditional folk dance. Under the direction of Serguei Makarov, Suzirya continues to entertain audiences worldwide with countless choreographic compositions embodying the culture and spirit of Ukraine. Some of Suzirya's notable performances include; Multicultural Dance Montage for Her Majesty's Royal Visit and The Calgary Stampede Evening Grandstand Show (2005); Hopak In The Park (2005, 2007); Canada's National Ukrainian Festival (2006); House of Ukraine Festival (San Diego 2007); Kateryna Australia Tour (2008); and Kateryna Canadian Tour's (Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Victoria, Nanaimo, Montreal, and Ottawa 2007-2010). Suzirya is currently working on their new upcoming production titled "Spirit of the Seasons" that will premier in 2012.
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Trio Harmonia
The Harmonia Trio's debut performance at the Montreal Ukrainian Festival 2010 has won the attention of the BWV Toronto Ukrainian Festival organizers, who attended the event. The Trio is comprised of: Olya Basalayeva, former soloist at the Dnipropetrovsk Opera Theatre in Ukraine, who continues her career as a chorister with le Ch'ur de l'Orchestre symphonique de Mont (OSM); Oxana Senkiv, a songwriter, who performs as a soloist as well as in vocal groups; and Helena Waverchuck, a classical singer who sings both locally and abroad as a soloist as well as a chorister with le Ch'ur de l'OSM. The goal of the ensemble is to popularize Ukrainian classical, folk and contemporary songs. This year the Trio celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Lemko Association by performing only Lemko songs at the festival.
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
Tyt i Tam
Saskatoon’s Тут і Там performs a unique and progressive style of Ukrainian folk music. The five-piece band has taken audiences by storm, playing to enthusiastic crowds at the Vegreville and Dauphin Ukrainian festivals. Each member has an extensive background in many varied styles of music, which when fused together creates Тут і Там’s signature sound. Their latest album (the ”white album”), is the natural result of a decade of performing together. Stacked with three-part harmonies and masterful instrumental work, the third album follows in the tradition of the band’s first two releases and recalls the energy of their hits Лемко and Два Дубки. Тут і Там’s creative arrangements and sincere musicality transcend the studio and contribute to their dynamic live shows. Тут і Там is John Dickinson, Matt Gruza, Carissa and Mark Klopoushak, and Steve Kodak. www.tytitam.com
*With the assistance of Celebrate Ontario
The Ukrainian Academy of Dance & Arkan Dance Company
The Ukrainian Academy of Dance was founded in 1987 by Danovia Stechishin and has trained over 1000 dancers. Arkan and the Academy rehearse at The Ukrainian National Federation Building in Toronto - UNO, a professionally- equipped dance studio where ballet, jazz, modern and Ukrainian dance is taught for dancers aged 3 to adult. Arkan Dance Company, as Ukrainian-Canadian ambassadors, has traveled to Florida (1995, 2005), New York (1995, 2000, 2008, 2009), Taiwan (1996), Brazil (1997), China (1999), Drummondville, Quebec (2001, 2005), Dauphin, Manitoba (1998, 2007), Ukraine (2003), Mexico (2004), Turkey (2006), Italy (2009) and Korea (2010). This year they celebrate their 25th anniversary and will be performing in March in Disneyworld, Florida and at the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair. For further information please visit: www.ukrainianacademyofdance.com or www.arkandancecompany.com.
The Ukrainian School of Dance (YKPAIHA)
The Ukrainian School of Dance, established by its Artistic Directors, Alexandra and Valeri Movtchan, is one of the finest schools of its kind within the greater Toronto area. The school offers student-oriented instructional sessions and serves as the base of the “Ukraina” Dance Ensemble. This school's emphasis is the development of both the artistic and technical abilities of students with the aim to promote a superior level of traditional Ukrainian dance. The school boasts a unique repertoire utilizing a variety of regional styles and costumes. The "Ukraina" Dance Ensemble embodies all of the qualities deeply embedded within Ukrainian culture --- incredible passion, eternal striving for perfection, a love of freedom, and the rare ability to express oneself through music, movement, traditional rituals and customs. Passion makes this dance troupe unique --- a passion for Ukrainian culture, a passion for dance and, above all, a passion for the human spirit.
Vesnianka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble
The Vesnianka Dance Ensemble is a highly energetic Ukrainian dance group that has been around for over 50 years offering a high caliber of dance instruction and performance, while keeping it FREE for all dancers. Yes – FREE! From its inception in 1958, the ensemble has grown and flourished under the leadership of founder Mr. Mykola Baldeckyj. Over its 50-year career, Vesnianka has performed worldwide for illustrious audiences and continues to draw enormous amounts of positive energy dancing locally, most importantly at Ukrainian events. Currently, Vesnianka’s Artistic Director is Toronto’s Stefan Kuziw. Stefan brings to Vesnianka a love of Ukrainian dance and many years of expertise, as dancer-soloist with Desna Ukrainian Dance Company and with Yavir School of Ukrainian Dance, as Assistant Director at Yavir and as Artistic Director of the Vatra Ukranian Folk Dance Ensemble. He has had the honour of performing with the Virsky Ukrainian Dancers in 2001 and 2004.
Zirka
Zirka is a band of six musicians who love to play their instruments and have a good time. Peter and Morris Hucal started the band when they were 12 years old playing guitar and accordion. Five years later their brother Johnny joined in on trumpet, then a couple years later their sister Katherine on sax. Bill Hawryschuk joined the band three years ago, bringing with him the experiences of playing drums with Solovey, Burya and Dunai. Karen Aniol joined the band two years ago on violin. Zirka has performed at countless zabavas, weddings and festivals over the years. www.zirkamusic.com
Zubrivka
Zubrivka is a group of experienced musicians from the Toronto area who enjoy creating and performing their own acoustic arrangements of traditional Ukrainian songs. The band was formed in 2005 and has been performing to enthusiastic audiences in Ontario and abroad ever since. Their first full-length CD "Home Again" has been very well received, with selections featured on Ukrainian radio programs across Canada. Zubrivka is excited to be back "Home again" in Bloor West Village this year, and looks forward to the great crowds, amazing food and music, and warm hospitality that the festival always offers. You can find more information on the bands website www.myspace.com/zubrivka
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