A unique master class of traditional Ukrainian songs and dances organized by Ukrainian Village Voices took place in New York City. The event gathered numerous fans of Ukrainian culture who had the opportunity to learn the ancient folk dance "Prypisky" under the guidance of folk dance researcher Anastasia Fyk.
This was reported by the Ukrainian Village Voices.
Anastasia, who grew up with Ukrainian dance in Canada, shared her experiences from ethnographic research in Ukrainian villages. She spoke about traditional choruses - dance songs that accompanied folk festivals - and taught participants how to perform them in combination with characteristic movements.
Participants had the opportunity to choose whether to sing, dance, or combine both activities, immersing themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Ukrainian celebrations.
The event was held in a friendly and dynamic atmosphere, allowing all participants to feel the connection between the traditions of the past and the contemporary cultural space of the Ukrainian diaspora.
The event was part of Anastasia Fyk's ongoing research into Ukrainian traditions as part of her residency at the Bohdan Medvidsky Folklore Centre at the University of Alberta.
As a fourth-generation member of the Ukrainian diaspora whose family settled on the prairies of Manitoba, Canada, she strives not only to document folk dances and songs, but also to restore them through practice, reclaiming the social and ritual aspects of traditional Ukrainian art. She also focuses on strengthening ties between communities by reviving endangered rural traditions. She is the founder of Kolektyvs Chornozem and Steppe in Manitoba and a member of Kosa Kolektiv in Ontario.
Author: Inna Mikhno