The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing war in that country has prompted many of Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian dance groups to contribute to humanitarian relief efforts.
It’s also inspired them to celebrate the resilience of the Ukrainian people through showcasing their culture.
Sonia’s School of Ukrainian Dance, based in Warman, is encouraging people to contribute to the Red Cross or to Stream of Hopes, a recognized charity (www.streamsofhope.ca) currently sending money and emergency goods to help Ukrainian refugees.
The Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal (www.cufoundation.ca) is another option for people looking to make donations to help Ukrainian refugees.
“When the Russian invasion first happened in mid-February, we were in shock,” said Sonia’s School of Ukrainian Dance Treasurer Erin Duff. “Not everyone in the club is Ukrainian, but we definitely feel the connection to the country and to the culture.
“Our costumes all come from Ukraine, and we have close contacts there.
“We get up every morning and check on the people we know, to see if they are okay, and even if they are alive.”
Duff said there is a Saskatchewan connection with the Streams of Hope charity. Lana Nyland, originally from Saskatoon, moved to Ukraine several years ago. She makes Ukrainian dance costumes for groups in Ukraine and other countries.
“Lana is helping raise money and get aid to refugees,” said Duff. “When you look at what people in Ukraine are doing to protect their homes, their families and their country, it just makes you feel very proud to have that connection.
“The people of Ukraine are not afraid of hard work. They’re a very proud and resilient people. When our ancestors emigrated here from Ukraine many years ago, they faced a lot of hardships, but they were used to overcoming challenges because life was often difficult for them back home in Ukraine as well.”
Duff said many Ukrainian dance groups in Saskatchewan are staging performances to highlight Ukrainian culture. Sonia’s School of Ukrainian Dance is slated to hold a showcase event marking its 40th anniversary on May 7 at the Legends Theatre in Warman.
“It’s been two years since we were able to hold a live performance,” said Duff. “Last year we had a virtual showcase, but even then, the adults weren’t able to perform because of public health restrictions in place at the time.”
Duff said while some may feel that staging a dance concert is not appropriate when a country is at war, the club executive believes this is a time when a celebration of Ukrainian culture is most needed.
“It’s so important right now to represent our culture and our ancestors,” she said. “It’s something we feel we have to do. We’re inspired and proud of how the Ukrainian people are resisting the invaders.
“This helps us feel involved and connected.”
Information on the school of Ukrainian dance and its upcoming performance is on its website (www.ssud.weebly.com) and its facebook page.