Voloshky brings Ukrainian dance, music, culture to Lied Center Oct. 24

            The Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble will bring its high kicks, stunning precision and incredible dancers to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Lied Center for Performing Arts Oct. 24. Combining the strengths of ballet with the vigor of European folk traditions, the Voloshky style is bold, powerful and sparkles with athleticism. Set to live music, the ensemble will perform a show of original choreography with vitality and joy that leap from the stage.

            Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. performance, starting at $29 for adults, are available at http://www.liedcenter.org, at the Lied Center Box Office, 301 N. 12th St., or by phone at 402-472-4747. Tickets to most Lied Center shows are available to students for 50 percent off.

            Voloshky will perform "Steppes: A Crossover," which combines classical and folkdance techniques to present the national character of Ukraine in an unforgettable display of art and energy. Featuring some rare works from choreographers previously blacklisted by the USSR, the ensemble will take audiences on a journey through Ukraine's rich history leading up to current events. The incredible ensemble draws from a repertoire of more than 40 traditional dances representing every region of Ukraine.

            Founded in 1972, Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble presents Ukrainian culture through dance, positioning the company to be a leading cultural ambassador. The company is dedicated to fostering and promoting cultural exchanges between Ukrainians and the global community through world-class artistic performances. Based in Jenkintown, Pa., Voloshky combines Ukrainian and American esthetics, drawing upon classical, contemporary and folkloric styles to create powerful trans-cultural performances.

            Company dancers and artistic director Taras Lewyckyj will also work with students from Lincoln's Arts and Humanities High School and UNL during their time in Lincoln conducting workshops, open mic sessions and dance technique classes which educate students about the distinct artistry, rich culture and ramifications of the gripping political tensions currently taking place in the Ukraine.

            This performance is made possible by the support of Friedman Law Offices. It was also made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts' National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, with additional support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Writer: Carrie Christensen, Lied Center for performing Arts