A Celebration of Ukrainian Spirit: Song and Dance in Cardiff

Daria Zhdanova

It’s hard to imagine showcasing Ukrainian culture without its vibrant songs and dances. For centuries, Ukrainians have connected with their rich natural surroundings, always finding space in their hearts for celebration. Perhaps that’s why their art is imbued with such unique harmony and beauty, often reflecting the grandeur of deeply felt experiences through various forms.

During the Vyshyvanka Day celebration at Cardiff’s Central Library on May 17th, visitors enjoyed a concise yet heartfelt concert program by local amateur folk artists. Despite only being in Wales for a few years, these performers have honed their skills to an impressive level through diligent effort and an indomitable spirit. This dedication allows them to truly capture hearts wherever they perform.

Rhythmic Gymnastics by Viktoriia Kizim: A Beacon of Hope

A true highlight of the concert program was the performance by the rhythmic gymnastics club from Cardiff. This club began as a volunteer initiative of the Ukrainian Hub in Cardiff, spearheaded by Helen McAdie. Recognizing the difficult adaptation process for Ukrainian children forced to emigrate, the Hub aimed to create various age-appropriate and diverse initiatives. Their goal was to foster integration and build a creative, multi-generational Ukrainian community.

With 30 years of teaching experience, coach Viktoriia Kizim offered her expertise to girls aged 4-10, forming a rhythmic gymnastics studio. Although the children have only been training for a year, and despite their young age, they have already developed into a beautiful, hardworking, creative, and proactive team.

The Sunflowers Dance Group: Grace, Resilience, and Ukrainian Spirit

This is the beauty of the soul, expressed through harmonious, flowing, and graceful movements. Professionals and amateurs alike, dancers captivate audiences, telling diverse stories silently, and enchanting with their rhythms. Indeed, how can Ukrainian culture be presented without the special essence of Ukrainian dance? You see grace and sophistication in the female roles, and unbridled strength and thrilling mastery in the male hopak.

The Sunflowers dance group began as a therapeutic outlet for refugee Ukrainian women coping with the dreadful trauma of displacement. They have arrived in Wales, with their children, from many different regions of their homeland and include teachers, managers, IT specialists, a translator from Arabic, an accountant, an entrepreneur, and a lawyer. Most had never danced professionally in Ukraine. But what started as a small, supportive circle has blossomed into a vibrant group – progressing from beginners to being invited to perform at events across the UK, spreading the beauty of Ukrainian culture and the strength of the human spirit wherever they go. Over these three years, the Sunflower’s performance geography has expanded beyond Wales. The group frequently participates in various events in Bristol and can also performed in Gloucester, London, and Swindon.

And all the while, their umbrella organisation, Sunflowers, supports those who remain in the war-ravaged country. By the end of last year, for example, they’d raised over £85,000 for Ukraine – with almost £73,000 of that spent on vital medical supplies. To find out more about their work, visit www.sunflowerswales.org.uk

Singing Circle Cardiff: Singing with Heart

Singing Circle Cardiff is an amateur singing group that truly sings from the heart. The majority of its members are Ukrainian women and children who have found refuge in Wales, but the group isn’t limited to them. We also have Nicola, a British singer, and a Ukrainian young man with a Czech passport.

“We sing in unison for victory and peace! Song, a powerful healer, lifts our spirits, mends the scars of war, and forges a deep sense of community. Through our voices, we share Ukrainian culture at various events, finding harmony in both melody and heart.”

Through song, which has resonated in the hearts of Ukrainians for centuries, Spivocha Kolo engages young people and instills a love for their native culture. We sing away longing and pain for our homeland, and we maintain a strong focus on aid. We actively participate in fundraising events and promote cultural integration within the community.

Among the most significant events Spivocha Kolo participated in during 2024 were: Ukrfest in Swindon (over 2,200 attendees), Theatre of Sanctuary Day (Sherman Theatre, Cardiff), the Holodomor Commemoration Memorial (Senedd, Cardiff), Fundraising for Ukraine (Holy Trinity Church, Wickwar), and Refugee Week and Language Festival (Central Library, Cardiff).

Nicola Boichuk, british participant of Singing Circle:

“You should all be incredibly proud of what you achieved last Saturday on Vyshyvanka Day. You continue to bring immense joy to many and, crucially, you are preserving what is most precious. Your energy and enthusiasm are truly remarkable. I’m so proud to be part of this group that brings so much enjoyment to all of us, but most importantly for you, it provides a sense of home and profound support”.

A Themed Photo Booth: Olena Usata’s Creative Debut

One of the vocalists from “Singing Circle Cardiff,” Olena Usata, put a tremendous amount of effort into creating a themed photo booth for event guests. This was her debut as a designer on a project of this scale, and this significant responsibility initially caused some hesitation. After all, the talented young woman was already involved in several other projects. However, Olena was given complete freedom for creative experimentation, and the results exceeded expectations, adding an engaging element to the overall atmosphere. We consider this experiment a success, leaving a pleasant impression on both Olena and the visitors.