Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company

Wednesday, October 28, 2009, at 7:30pm | Foellinger Great Hall

The potent history of the Ukraine dates to the 9th century and encompasses flavors and traditions from the Cossacks, the Gypsies, the Middle East, and the Carpathian Mountains of central Europe. The history of the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company may be much more recent, but its boundless heritage hearkens back through the centuries. In 1937, Ukrainian ballet masters Pavlo Virsky (known for principal roles in Swan Lake, Don Quixote, and Raymonda) and Mykola Bolotov joined forces to intertwine the soulfulness of folk dance with the exacting technique of classical ballet. Virsky led the company for over 20 years of flawless execution, elaborate costumes, gravity-defying leaps, and—of course—the infamous Cossack kicks that have dazzled audiences for generations.

Virsky protégé Myroslav Vantukh now leads the company in performing established works alongside expressive new pieces that celebrate what dance critic Clive Barnes calls “the remarkable bounce and pounce of Ukrainian dancing,” all the while paying tribute to the warm humor, optimism, and wisdom of the Ukrainian people that first inspired Virsky to share this captivating traditional artistry.

Recommended for ages 10 and up

Download the program for this performance
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