About
Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble represents Ukrainian culture through dance. Voloshky’s unique blend of styles has positioned the company as a leading cultural ambassador, simultaneously representing Ukrainian arts as well as the rich dynamic pluralism of the United States.
Voloshky is dedicated to fostering and promoting cultural exchanges between Ukrainians and the global community through world–class artistic performances. As a Ukrainian Dance company founded in the United States, Voloshky combines Ukrainian and American esthetics, drawing upon classical, contemporary and folkloric styles to create powerful trans-cultural programs that cross-pollinate diverse audiences.
Voloshky’s 2009 home-season performance, STEPPES – A Ukrainian Journey, featured virtuoso violinist Vasyl Popadiuk and his musicians (Papa Duke). The entire performance was to live music. After the show, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., Dr. Oleh Shamshur, expressed his thoughts on the emotional response that he and the audience experienced- “We regard this joint performance to be an outstanding example of cultural diplomacy as well as entertainment.”
Voloshky partners with leading professional dance companies in Ukraine and the United States and has been generously supported by funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, and Dance/USA Philadelphia.
For over a decade, numerous artistic projects have been supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage through Dance Advance. Most recently Voloshky was awarded a grant to commission world-renowned choreographer Mark Morris to create a new contemporary work set to premiere in its 40th anniversary season.
Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble is a registered 501-c3 charitable non-profit organization.