Pearson College and Victoria’s Ukrainian Cultural Center hosted the first Ukrainian Arts and Culture Celebration featuring traditional performances by locals with strong ties to Ukraine.
Saturday’s (April 15) event features dance, music and art celebrating Ukrainian resilience and culture.
Lucas Olscamp, professor of theater and visual arts at Pearson College, said the partnership with the Ukrainian Cultural Center was a natural fit.
“Ukrainian dance and Ukrainian art have a long and historical relationship with Pearson College,” Olskamp said. “This has been one of our traditions for more than 30 years, and we are proud to keep Ukrainian dance traditions alive and thriving in our university community, along with Ukrainian music and visual arts.”
The Ukrainian Cultural Center is also celebrating 45 years of promoting and sharing Ukrainian culture in Victoria.
Admission to the event is through donations, with proceeds going towards scholarships from the Pearson Institute Ukrainian Studies Association, the Canada-Ukraine Foundation’s relief work and support for newcomers from Ukraine.
“This philanthropic event by the students reflects the College’s desire and commitment to provide much-needed financial support to meet the humanitarian needs of these newcomers, as well as those still living in Ukraine,” said College President Robert Herchak. Association for Ukrainian Studies in a press release for the event.
Cultural activities continued throughout the afternoon, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about Ukrainian dance and giving students the opportunity to lead country dances that are open to all.
Performing solo, Pearson student and Ukrainian native Diana Shyshkova described her dance as a deep love for Ukraine.
“Any Ukrainian dance expresses love for the nation and the greatness of the motherland,” Shyshkova said.
The event also featured performances by two band players, Mariia Smolinska and Georgiy Matviyiv, and Pearson singers and band.
The Ukrainian Cultural Center also hosts a dinner on the last Friday of every month, giving locals a taste of Ukrainian cuisine.
For more information on events held at the center, please visit UCLA
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