THE BATTLEFORDS — The Association of United Ukrainian Canadians, Poltava Ensemble of Song, Music and Dance is a 50-member Ukrainian ensemble based in Regina, and they're coming to the Dekker Centre March 26, nearly a year after the war in Ukraine began.
“Given Russia’s unlawful war against Ukraine, I found it necessary to present and showcase Ukrainian arts and cultures. Especially because the prairies and Saskatchewan have a rich history of Ukrainian immigration,” says Kali Weber, general manager for the Dekker Centre.
“In many different points through history, the arts have been used as a tool or vehicle for social change,” she said.
The Dekker Centre is also committed to presenting a diverse lineup each season, inclusive of all genders, races and cultures, which Weber says people can support by purchasing a ticket.
According to the Dekker Centre’s website, the Poltava Ensemble’s roots in Saskatchewan’s cultural scene began in 1922 with the formation of a children’s string orchestra, and since that time, the ensemble has grown to include dancers, singers and musicians.
The Poltava Dancers, directed by Lisa Wanner, is a male and female adult ensemble whose dancers have a high level of technical training in Ukrainian dance, ballet and folk dance.
The Poltava Orchestra, under the direction of Vlad Tsymbal, brings to life the rich heritage of Ukrainian folk music, whether it accompanies the dancers or is featured as a performing entity unto itself.
“Purchasing a ticket to Poltava Ukrainian Dance directly supports Ukrainian artists,” reminds Weber.
For more information about tickets, visit the Dekker Centre's website at: www.https://www.dekkercentre.com
