What better way to celebrate the youth and rebirth of spring than with a Ukrainian final dance recital? The Hafford Cheremka Dance Club held its annual final dance recital April 12 in Hafford.
The Cheremka Dance Club was established in 1973 by Anne Ogenchuk, Ann Rebeyka, Evangeline Shyluk and Sally Harach with the primary objective of preserving Ukrainian culture and heritage. The opportunity was also used as an opportunity for young aspiring dancers to learn about Ukrainian culture through the art of music and dance. For the past 40 years, the club has not only provided the youth with an opportunity to learn the art of dance but the outstanding performances have captured the hearts of parents, grandparents and friends.
The dancers wore colourful traditional costumes that represented various regions of Ukraine. The natural glow and smiles on the youths' faces were clear indication that they enjoyed performing as much as the audience enjoyed watching.
The beginner, junior, intermediate and senior level dancers performed solo, duo and group dances. Once again, Shannon Gabrush, instructor for all levels, was commended and presented with a bouquet of flowers for her commitment to weekly instruction to these aspiring dancers. Alanna Hawrysh was also presented with a bouquet as she celebrates her last year performing with the club.
Parents and caregivers should also be commended for their time commitment to ensure the youth attend regular practices. Absenteeism not only affects the individual's growth but the group's abilities as well. They were also acknowledged for their volunteer time baking, cooking and serving at fundraising events.
The beginner group consists of Jessica Rice, Summer Dewart, Reese Cherwinski and Morgan Dubyk. Dancers in the junior group are Lonnie Yasieniuk, Carson Derksen, Courtney Yasieniuk, Amber Toews, Hailey Prystupa, Kyle Striga, Kristen Welkie and Chelsea Boyko. Intermediate dancers are Cabri Tanchak, Leah Kohut, Justin Yasieniuk, Taylinn Cherwinski, Brooke Kowalchuk, Jerie Yasieniuk, Mitchell Tanchak and Keanna Svendsen Striga. Senior group performers were Alanna Hawrysh, Frankie Yasieniuk, Scott Markewich, Tyler Yasieniuk, Michael Horner, Andrew Derksen, Jenny Markewich, Ashley Kowalchuk, Megan Jones, Rayleen Roth, Erica Horner, Joseph Tanchak, Kolten Yasieniuk and Marina Rice.
