Dance companies to present concert celebrating Virsky's 100th (04/10/05)

Dance companies to present concert celebrating Virsky's 100th

TORONTO - The Desna Ukrainian Dance Company of Toronto and the International Summer School of Ukrainian Dance in Kyiv, will present a celebration concert, 100 Years of Pavlo Virsky on Sunday, April 17.

Virsky, who died in 1975, believed that dance could portray a nation's culture and soul. His passion for infusing folk traditions into dance resulted in the creation of a unique choreographic legacy and a world-renowned dance company that bears his name - the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company.

"This event will be of interest to Ukrainian Canadians and the general public who enjoy the passion and energy demonstrated by Ukrainian dancers," said Jerry Moroch, head of the event organizing committee. "Our committee is composed of volunteers from a number of Ukrainian organizations. We're collaborating to plan and promote a successful concert that will honor the legendary Pavlo Virsky."

The event will feature dance companies from across Canada paying tribute to Virsky's choreography; guest speakers, including dance company alumni who experienced Virsky's artistic direction first-hand; a slide show, exhibits and a short documentary to pay tribute to a man who influenced Ukrainian dance like none other.

Honored guests, including the Virsky ensemble's current artistic director Myroslav Vantukh, Valeria Virsky (widow of Pavlo Virsky and former dancer) and Gregory Chapkis (Merited Artist of Ukraine and one of the oldest alumni of Virsky), will be invited to travel from Ukraine to participate in the jubilee celebration and concert.

"100 Years of Pavlo Virsky" will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 17, at the Ukrainian Cultural Center, 83 Christie St., Toronto. Tickets cost $25 and include a buffet; they may be purchased at the West Arka, Toronto (416-762-8751).

For more information or to purchase tickets, readers may contact Mr. Moroch at (416) 483-7030 or Yuri Grekov at (647) 444-1484.

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