The first annual concert of the Ukrainian Dance Studio “Clove Blossom” was held in Arlington, Virginia. The event brought together children, youth, and adults around Ukrainian folk dance and became an important event for the region’s Ukrainian community.
This was report Ukrainian Dance Studio “Clove Blossom”.
"Наш концерт відбувся! “Our concert has taken place! What an incredible day for “Clove Blossom”. After months of rehearsals, hard work, and preparation, we are excited to share our love for Ukrainian dance and culture,” the studio said.
As reported, the Ukrainian Dance Studio “Clove Blossom” is a non-profit organization established in Arlington with the goal of preserving and promoting Ukrainian culture through dance, as well as uniting the Ukrainian community and all those interested in Ukrainian art.
The studio was founded by Ukrainian dance choreographers and teachers Viktoriya Balyakina and Andriy Avramenko. Combining classical, folk and stage choreography, they strive to preserve Ukrainian cultural heritage, strengthen the community and introduce Americans to Ukrainian traditions.
As Viktoriya Balyakina, the head and co-founder of the Ukrainian Dance Studio, told VM, the first report concert was the result of several months of hard work.
“For us, it was a very important and emotional day – the result of many months of rehearsals and preparation. The concert was attended by children from the younger group, youth and adults. For many, it was their first performance on the big stage. It was very nice to see how they supported each other, overcome their anxiety and went on stage with smiles,” she said.
Also performing on stage that day were the studio's co-founders Viktoriya Balyakina and Andriy Avramenko, pianist Viktoriya Ponomareva with her students, and vocalist Alina Stovbun.
A feature of the studio is that its participants include not only children from Ukrainian families, but also American children who are introduced to Ukrainian culture through dance. The founders emphasize that this way they manage to popularize Ukrainian traditions among a wider audience and build cultural bridges between communities.
“The atmosphere in the hall was very warm, with support and applause. It was also important for me that there were people of different ages and backgrounds in the hall. We have not only children from Ukrainian families, but also American children who are interested in Ukrainian dance and culture. I would like to say separately that we had sponsors (Euro Foods Market) who prepared sweet gifts for all our participants. We were very grateful and happy for this opportunity. This concert was an important event for us and the first big result of our work. As a young non-profit organization, we are just starting our journey. But we already see how important it is for children and for the community, and we want to continue to develop.
Viktoria Balyakina notes that the studio continues to actively develop, holds regular classes and participates in cultural events in the region and has already had its first significant successes.
Photo: Tsvit Kalyny Ukrainian Dance Studio
Author: Inna Mikhno