Performers

Bands & Singers

ZIRKA Band

ZIRKA, the Toronto-based Ukrainian band, has been a presence at weddings, festivals, and zabavas for decades. This year, they are thrilled to perform at the 60th Anniversary of the Canadian National Ukrainian Festival (CNUF), marking their sixth appearance at this iconic event! With a deep passion for traditional Ukrainian music, ZIRKA crafts a distinct zabava sound that delights audiences of all ages. Their lively energy and dynamic performances never fail to get crowds partying and dancing! ZIRKA has released five CDs, including their latest album, This Is Us. All of their music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms. Fans can also explore ZIRKA’s rich history through their dedicated YouTube channel, where videos from the band’s performances spanning many decades are available to watch. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, ZIRKA’s timeless sound is just a click away!

ZIRKA is made up of a talented group of musicians, including several founding members who have been integral to the band’s success over the years. The band consists of Morris Hucal (accordion and vocals); John Hucal (trumpet, trembita, and vocals); Katherine Hucal-Poitras (alto and tenor saxophones); Bill Hawryschuk (Drums); Karen Aniol (violin and vocals); and, Yurko Mychaluk (guitar and vocals).

Together, this talented group brings a dynamic mix of instruments and harmonies, creating the distinctive zabava sound that has made ZIRKA a beloved staple in the Ukrainian music scene. Get ready to celebrate Ukrainian culture and music with ZIRKA at this year’s CNUF!

For further information of the band and links to its social media platforms, please visit www.zirkamusic.com

Tyt i Tam

Тут і Там has been captivating audiences worldwide for over 20 years with their unique and progressive style of Ukrainian Turbofolk. Traditional Ukrainian folk songs and melodies combined with progressive and contemporary rock-ska create Тут і Там’s unforgettable signature sound. Stacked with four–part harmonies and electric instrumental work, their creative arrangements and sincere musicality transcend the studio and contribute to their dynamic live shows.

Made up of John Dickinson, Matt Gruza, Steve Kodak, and siblings Mark and Carissa Klopoushak, Тут і Там has performed at every major Ukrainian festival across Canada, including the Toronto and Montreal Ukrainian Festivals, Vegreville’s Pysanka Festival, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, and internationally in Australia and the United States. In July 2016, Тут і Там embarked on a two-week tour of Ukraine, performing at major music festivals including Atlas Weekend (Kraina Mriy) and together with Ukrainian superstars Rozhanytsia and Burdon Folk Band. Тут і Там has released four full–length studio albums, including their newest release, Obriad, available on all major streaming services or Bandcamp.

Viktoriya Kantor

Viktoriya Kantor is a gifted singer-songwriter with a rich musical heritage. Born in Ukraine and now residing in the US, Viktoriya Kantor has spent her lifetime honing her craft, winning numerous vocal competitions, and performing at high-profile events and concerts.

With a lifelong passion for music and over 20 years of experience, Viktoriya Kantor has captivated audiences worldwide with powerful vocals and heartfelt performances.

High Profile

High Profile is an energetic, professional, yet approachable 5-piece dance band from Winnipeg, Manitoba that was founded by Winnipeg musician Darren Gagaluk. The band consists of Stephen Kiz, Jeff Korchoski, Todd Station, John Racaru & Darren Gagaluk.

High Profile has made many notable appearances including the Vesna Ukrainian Festival in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; Mosaic Festival in Regina, Saskatchewan; Folklorama (Ukraine-Kyiv Pavilion) in Winnipeg; and, of course, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival (2007, 2011, 2016 & 2022) in Dauphin, Manitoba. In 2015, “High Profile” was also the opening act for the Folklorama Kickoff Ceremonies held at the Forks in Winnipeg.

Additionally, the band has been in demand for many other special events such as weddings, Malankas, casinos, corporate functions, as well as several TV and radio appearances. Every time they perform, they have as much fun as their audiences. People have even complained that they

have sore feet from excessive dancing to the band’s music! A bonus: the band members are also multi-instrumentalists (a rarity) which also enhances their live performances. Besides the solid foot-stomping polkas, waltzes, schottisches, ballroom style dances, etc., the band plays other musical styles ranging over a 50-year span which includes rock/pop, country rock and an occasional Celtic song. The band has also recorded 3 very successful Ukrainian CDs: “Traditionally Yours”, “…And The Zabava Goes On…”, and “Tribute to Ukrainian Heritage” all of which have received critical acclaim inside and outside of Canada and demonstrate the influences of many styles of Ukrainian music on each High Profile CD.

High Profile is honoured to be returning, once again, to Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival…especially for the 60th Anniversary celebration as the band will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary! They are now one of Manitoba’s longest running Ukrainian Party & Dance Bands.

Be warned: every “High Profile” performance can be different and full of pleasant surprises! The band looks forward to performing for you all! “High Profile” supports the people of Ukraine. слава україні! (Glory to Ukraine!) героям слава! (Glory to the heroes!)

For booking information, please go to the band’s website at www.highprofileband.com

Millenia

Millenia formally came into being in the year 1999 as a young, energetic group of musicians dedicated to both preserving and advancing Canadian Ukrainian

music. They have performed countless times to countless thousands across North America.

The band’s earlier albums “Коріння” (Roots) and “Життя” (Life) pay homage to the bands early Ukrainian musical influences, show the progression of Western Ukrainian music and bridge the Modern and Traditional musical styles. The album “Браття” (Brotherhood) was released in February 2012 and has been reviewed as “Hitting the mark on every musical level”. This album showcases the niche style of Millenia with a polished representation of their music. In 2014, Millenia released their first live album, which was recorded in front of an enthusiastic crowd at “On The Rocks” in Edmonton, hence the name “Millenia, On the Rocks!” This Album showcases Millenia’s raw energy from their live performances including songs often requested but previously unrecorded by the boys.

In 2015 Millenia prioritized their search for traditional Ukrainian music overseas to add to their repertoire and inspire a new direction, which spawned the 2016 release of an EP. This mini album granted Millenia an Edmonton Music Awards nomination gaining recognition outside of the Ukrainian musical community and resulted in a win of the “2016 People’s Choice Award”. Millenia was fortunate again with another nomination and win of the “2018 People’s Choice Award” for their early release of songs of the most recent album “Budmo Hey!”

2020 Millenia celebrated their 20th Anniversary and to commemorate this accomplishment “Budmo Hey!” was released.

Millenia continues to perform extensively and releases music online to services such as Apple Music, Spotify and Social Media platforms reaching listeners around the world.

Millenia has a wealth of musical experience and an extremely diverse musical background. After 25 amazing years of Millenia, their mission remains to produce Traditional Ukrainian music in a modern progressive style for fans for many more years to come. Millenia is Bobby Yakoweshen (Drums/Vocals), Johnny Wacko (Keyboards/Leading Vocals), Ryan Pugh (Guitar/Fiddle/Vocals), Shawn Ostafie (Accordion/Dulcimer/Bass), and Clint Moroziuk (Guitar/Bass/Vocals).

www.milleniaband.com

www.facebook.com/milleniaband

[email protected]

Friends Band

The Friends Band was created in the early 2000s, playing weddings, fundraiser socials, and Anniversaries, Malanka’s, and New Years parties in towns in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario. The music from the Friends band is unique, having two saxophones in harmony with the accordion playing a polka, waltz, and schottische. The country, classic rock, 50,s, 60,s from the Friends band will be no disappointment having 4 strong vocalists. The five piece band has talented musicians having played in many different Wedding bands, most popular ones in Manitoba. The Friends Band made its first CNUF appearance in 2022. Friends Band is excited to be playing at the 60 th Anniversary. Friends Band continues playing today at many functions and is available for bookings. We hope to see you at the festival this year enjoying the best Ukrainian food, Beverages and Zabavas.

The Sawchuk Sisters

Brooklynn and Brenna Sawchuk have been described as “Growing up on stage at Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival” even though they are from Brandon Manitoba! At the young age of five, they began taking classical violin lessons at Brandon University. Over the years, they have shared their love for music through performances at festivals, weddings, anniversaries, parades, charity events, etc… Being on the stage has always been a natural place for the girls as they grew up participating in competitive dance, choir and sports.

Brooklynn is currently attending the Doctor of Pharmacy program at the University of Manitoba, while Brenna is majoring in Physics at Brandon University.

Performing in Dauphin over the last 15 years has always been a special time for the Sawchuk Sisters. Brooklynn and Brenna are accompanied by their Dad, Jason on the accordion. The girls are still looking for an answer to the age-old question, “Who Stole the Kishka…?”

Dance Groups

Rushnychok Ukrainian Folk Dance Association

Rushnychok Ukrainian Folk Dance Association was established in 1967, and has since grown into one of Saskatoon’s elite Ukrainian dance groups. Throughout its 55 year journey Rushnychok has welcomed thousands of dancers. Rushnychock now, primarily focused on dancers ages 3-18. Our not-for-profit, parent-run organization inspires youth through the teaching of traditional and modern Ukrainian dance. Rushnychok strives to embody the vibrant and living culture of Ukraine.

Over the years Rushnychok has traveled and performed for delegates and audiences across Canada, the USA and Ukraine. In 2018 a group of our dancers performed at the International Ukrainian Dance and Culture Festival in Ukraine. This trip is very dear to our hearts as a connection to our homeland, particularly given the events of today. Rushnychok is forever grateful for this experience.

In the summer of 2023 Rushnychok was invited to perform on the Grandstand stage at Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival. Dancing alongside many of Canada’s most inspiring dance ensembles was an honour our young dancers will treasure as they continue their dance journey.

Our Artistic Directors, Shannon Gabrush and Sonya Garvie lead an experienced team of Instructors who bring Rushnychok traditional and unique pieces of choreography aiding in the development of character, strength and grace. Our dancers’ repertoire is constantly changing as our team of award-winning instructors continues to develop new and exciting dances that reflect Ukraine’s old traditions and capture the refreshingly free spirit of a progressive and modern nation.

Rushnychok continues to promote, preserve and to foster Ukrainian culture and multicultural understanding through Ukrainian Folk Dance. We do this by sharing our gift and love of Ukrainian dance with audiences of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds. Our dancers feel privileged to perform for you, and to help all audience members embrace the beautiful heart and soul of Ukrainian culture.

Dyakuyemo!

Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble

Step into the enchanting world of Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble, where tradition dances into the future!

Founded in 1967 by Miss Lusia Pavlychenko, and under the artistic direction of Serhij Koroliuk, Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble stands as a vibrant emblem of Ukrainian heritage. Affectionately known as PFE, they have garnered international acclaim, captivating audiences worldwide.

This exciting troupe of young, dedicated dancers can stimulate nostalgia, create a comedic scene, dazzle you with intricate, high velocity footwork, move you with its lyrical quality and, most of all, give your hands and feet a tremendous workout!

Today, more than ever, PFE honours Ukrainian dance as a powerful tribute to culture and tradition – values Ukrainians are bravely fighting for as they defend their freedom.

PFE is thrilled to join in celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival, a milestone in Ukrainian culture and community spirit! Here’s to many more years of growth, unity, and cultural richness!

Veselka

In 1983, a group of friends started getting together to learn Ukrainian dance. This weekly get-together was a good excuse to regularly see each other, socialize, exercise, and celebrate their love of Ukrainian culture. They called themselves Veselka, which means rainbow in Ukrainian. Few would have guessed this small group of friends would evolve into the prized ensemble Veselka is known as today.

Over the past 40 years, Veselka has earned a well-deserved reputation as the “Best Adult” Ukrainian dance group in Canada. They have grown from a small group of friends, to an ensemble cast of fifty dancers that have entertained audiences with their unique blend of character, humor, and vitality, inspired by their Ukrainian-Canadian roots.

With an age range of dancers from 19 to 70 years old, Veselka is an inclusive group, who prides themselves on creating a community spirit that makes dancers feel like they are among friends and family.

Since its inception, Veselka has shared their passion with audiences across Canada and into the United States (including at Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Manitoba, and the Ukrainian Pysanka Festival in Vegreville, Alberta),

Currently under the leadership of artistic director Trisha Bayrock and assistant instructor Brent Kostyniuk, Veselka continues to impress audiences with their diverse repertoire and unique connection to their Ukrainian Canadian heritage.

Volya

Volya is the Ukrainian word for “freedom”. Freedom to express oneself through the art of Ukrainian dance is the founding principle of Volya. For ensemble members, Volya is a style, a philosophy and an inspiration to continually stretch their physical and artistic limits. For over 35 years, Edmonton-based Volya Ukrainian Dance Ensemble has enthralled local, national and international audiences with its exciting and innovative choreography. Under the leadership of highly-respected Artistic Director Zhenia Bahri, Volya combines the highest standards of technical excellence with the intricate footwork and athletic artistry that are the hallmarks of Ukrainian dance at its very best.

Since its inception in 1989, Volya has flourished into a vibrant ensemble consisting of dedicated members who have captivated and delighted audiences with their dynamic performances around the world. Volya has entertained audiences at festivals in Germany, Holland, Brazil, Italy, USA (California, New York), Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Croatia, Turkey, France, England, the Azores Islands, Greece, and Colombia.

Over the years many dancers have entered Volya’s studios with the same goal in mind, to dance for the love of dance and to establish an identity for the ensemble that is uniquely Volya!