The rhythmic sounds of polka music filled Smith Hall as families broke bread and at celebrated Ukrainian New Year’s together on Jan. 14.
The Smith-Hondo Agricultural Recreation Association organized the dinner for the community to celebrate their heritage.
“It’s great to get together with people in the new year,” said Mike Andruik, a board member on SHARA and one of the event’s organizers.
Following a hearty meal, the 175 diners and were thoroughly entertained by the Athabasca Ukrainian Folk Dance Club.
Eleven members of the club ranging aged 5 to 16 performed a number of group and solo acts in colourful, flowing dresses made in Ukraine.
“They were excellent – everyone enjoyed them,” said Fred Laughy, a SHARA member who invited the club to the dinner. “A lot of grandparents got to see them perform.”
The club has existed for 41 years and it was a treat for the audience – some of whom had danced in the club when they were younger – to see the next generation perform.
Brian Popowicz, whose 15-year-old daughter Georgia was part of show, began dancing with the group when he was eight years old. He has since had opportunities both to travel to Ukraine and dance with both Georgia and his other daughter Brianne.
He said it is a privilege to experience and pass on his culture to his children.
“We get to understand the traditions of why we do what we do, and then bring those lessons back with us,” he said.
It was the dancers’ first performance in more than four months, and while they said there was a little bit of rust, it did not take them long to find their rhythm.
“It took us a few minutes to get comfortable,” Georgia Popowicz said. “But it came back pretty quickly.”
Following the show, SHARA donated $250 to the club. The Athabasca Ukrainian Dance Club tours the region performing in Athabasca, St. Paul, Lloydminster, Lac La Biche among other places.
SHARA president Devin Attfield made the presentation.
“It was good just to show appreciation for them coming out,” he said. “They did a wonderful job and we want to support what they’re doing.”
