Suzirya's Spirit of the Seasons

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Sunday, June 23rd, 2013
7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

The evening�s performance will take you on a journey through the first act,
�Spirit of the Seasons�.

The beauty of nature is an affirming constant in our glorious magnificent world. The songs and poetry of every people on Earth tell of the power and beauty of the mountains, seas, and forests and their part of the planet. Composers around the world have produced works reflecting the vast beauty of the seasons. In an Agrarian society the changing seasons are particularly important, as they define all types of activities both practical and ritual. This is the theme that Suzirya Ukrainian Dance Theatre brings to its audiences in this new production "Spirit of the Seasons"

Translated Summary:

The prophetess of nature calls out to the seasons one by one, inviting them to visit. What beauty and wonder each season brings. And with each comes a wealth of seasonal traditions�as well as an opportunity for young love to blossom.

Dudaryk, the young piper, leads the way through this never-ending change of seasons. First comes Winter, a snowy whirlwind, bringing a flurry of activity. The village youth revel in winter dances and lively festivities while, hidden in the crowd, a shy young couple just can�t seem to take their eyes off each other.

Next is spring, a time of awakening, with green fields as far as the eye can see and a special energy all its own. Songs and dances pay homage to the rebirth of nature and amidst the budding flowers our young couple enjoys their first moments alone together.

Summer brings the festival of Kupala, a celebration for the exuberance of youth. Young girls dream of their beloved. �Will he find the wreath that I�ve sent down the river?� �Will I have the chance to jump over the cleansing fire with him?� They decorate a young sapling with flowers and hope that they will be lucky in love. But perhaps it�s the fortune teller burning sweet herbs who really holds power over the young and their future�? It certainly seems that our young couple needs her help to give them a push in the direction of love.

Autumn is a season of rest after the harvest has been brought in. What a better time to hold a wedding? Troisti Muzyky, a traditional trio of musicians, lead the way as guests from all over Ukraine join the celebration and present gifts to the young couple. The bride and groom, and their guests dance late into the night and dream of what the future may hold. Together, they are embarking on a new journey through the changing seasons, whose cycle is about begin anew.

The second part of the performance is in the style of an Olio � a variety of dances from Suzirya Ukrainian Dance Theatre, followed be a selection of solo vocals from Tetiana Onyshchenko. Suzirya�s extensive repertoire is intended to showcase the artistry and energy of Ukrainian folk dance. With the beauty of Tetiana Onyshchenko�s vocals emotionally touching and moving the audience. The evening ends with the most popular and national dance of Ukraine, the Hopak.