I reviewed the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company?s Cal Performances appearance yesterday for Voice of Dance:

?Watching the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company explode across the stage with color and good cheer, it?s easy to understand why former ballet master Pavlo Virsky felt drawn to his region?s folkloric traditions. Bounding 85-strong through Zellerbach Hall Sunday, faces brighter than the most solicitous of airline attendants, the Virsky company was big and bold but also remarkably refined. The matinee crowd roared approval for the tricks and the artistry.

The troupe has both elements in spades. Virsky left a career in classical dancing to establish his ensemble in 1937 and direct it from 1955 until his death in 1975. The ballet training continues under Myroslav Vantukh, who assumed leadership in 1980. Arms are light and elegant above vigorously stamping feet, and the heel clicks in the women?s Kozachok dance are as fleet and fluttery as brises. The polish detracts nothing from the men?s powerful leaps and the women?s earthy charm.?

Fun show, fun review to write. What more can you ask for?

1 Comment

  • Stephanie Posted October 22, 2004 5:04 pm

    I just recently got the chance to view the Ukrainian’s National Dance Company and what can I say besides WOW!!!!!!!!

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