SUZIRYA!

THE COMPANY

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. The dancers of Suzirya train three times per week in this serious art form and are steadfast in their work ethic, dedicating themselves to perfecting their dance presentation.

Under Serguei Makarov’s direction, the company entertains audiences with countless choreographic compositions embodying the culture and spirit of Ukraine. Makarov, a ballet-master who hails from Kyiv Ukraine, strives to preserve and develop folk dance as a visual and dramatic art form. His choreographic genius, coupled with his rigorous and precise dance instruction, has him sought after worldwide.

Suzirya sets before audiences their exquisite costumes that feature elaborate embroidery with bright colors and patterns. The stunning costumes complement the breathtaking skills of jumping, turning, and Cossack kicking (squat kick). Along with the eye-catching costumes and energetic dancing, props are used such as ribbons, tambourines and flowers to enhance the understanding of the folk traditions.

Suzirya is recognized as a registered charity and non-profit society. Countless fundraising and administrative commitments have already succeeded the company and the Board of Directors, with their ambition and dedication, have been successful in creating an exciting addition to Calgary’s arts and cultural community. Suzirya is now in their fourth year of operations and are embarking on a cross country Australian tour in March 2008 touring their production of Kateryna, with the Ukrainian Male Chorus of Edmonton.

A selection of Suzirya’s notable performances thus far have included; The Orange Revolution (January 2005); Multicultural Dance Montage for Her Majesty (May 2005); Hopak In The Park (June 2005 and June 2007); Multicultural Dance Montage For the Calgary Stampede Grandstand Stand Show (July 2005); The Kimberley International Folk Festival (September 2005 and 2006); Constellation of Hope (March 2006), a joint production with the Nadiya Choreographic Ensemble of Edmonton; House of Ukraine Festival, San Diego (September 2007); and their most recent production, Kateryna (Calgary and Edmonton - June 2007; Winnipeg – Dec 2007).

Be sure to catch Suzirya’s magnificent combination of music, Ukrainian folk traditions, dazzling costumes, and skilled technical expertise in acrobatics, ballet, and folk dance. Their entertainment program is a spectacle that people of all ages will enjoy.