Tradition, with a modern twist

An igniting potpourri in three acts. It opens with a mesmerizing display of the traditional Rushnyk, the ritual embroidered cloth — though today Sonyashnyk dances with Ukrainian flags 🇺🇦 in its place, symbolizing the unity and resilience of Ukraine. Next comes the iconic, exhilarating Hopak, the dynamic cornerstone of Ukrainian performing arts. The suite closes with Vesnianka, a joyful celebration of spring — its traditional essence infused with modern choreography and music. A feast for the senses that blends ritual, energy, and the spirit of spring.

The Poltava region is known for its rich folklore and dancing heritage. Pidkivochky, a notable stage dance that originated in the village of Chorbi, showcases the region’s unique cultural expression. Its signature step taps the heel of the shoe, woven together with changing steps, dorizhky (pathways), dribushka (hops), biguntsi (leaps), prytupy (stomps), tynochky (toe taps), and touches of polka. Through intricate footwork and lively rhythms, Pidkivochky embodies the very spirit of Poltava — Tetyana’s home region.

Rooted in the Hutsul region since ancient times and named for the city of Kolomyia, the Kolomyika merges three fundamental Hutsul steps — tropit, perepletukha (crossing the legs), and haiduk (throwing out the leg) — over a lively two-beat meter. Words, music, and movement form one cohesive whole around the genetically linked “circle,” as the dancers themselves recite the short, witty stanzas of the Kolomyika.

Pleskach takes its name from opleski — “clapping.” This lively, engaging dance is known for its storytelling, as cheerful girls depict playful scenes from everyday life. Part of Ukraine’s cultural heritage, Sonyashnyk’s rendition pairs traditional choreography with classical music, capturing the spirit and authenticity of the dance. Prepare to be charmed by its infectious rhythm, graceful movement, and joyful storytelling.

Cherevychky — “The Little Shoes” — is a traditional Ukrainian song given a modern twist by Sonyashnyk. With its catchy melody and energetic moves, it has become a beloved festival hit, fusing traditional elements with a contemporary touch for a fresh, vibrant feel. A joyful celebration of cultural tradition reinterpreted for a modern audience.

Horlytsya is a Ukrainian folk story dance that emerged in the early 19th century, inspired by the traditional song “A girl like a turtledove flocks to a Cossack.” Lively and spirited, it tells its story through choreography — its movements, steps, and formations carrying the narrative, the dancers in vivid traditional costume. A beloved, iconic dance that showcases the enduring spirit of Ukrainian folk tradition.

At Ukrainian winter fairs, people played games known as “running a snowstorm” — Zaviryuha, Blizzard, or Veremia — girls in coats and bright scarves showing off their skill to impress the boys. Metelytsya captures that playful spirit, along with the magic of Andriyivski vechornytsi, the night before St. Andrew’s Day, when girls performed candle-and-mirror divination rituals to glimpse their romantic futures. A dance full of fun, mystery, and a touch of winter magic.

“Galia carries water, the rocker bends, and Ivanko follows her like a periwinkle…” So begins the Ukrainian folk song of two lovers, Galia and Ivanko. Their story unfolds through a quarrel — Ivanko taking the first step toward reconciliation, Galia, out of shyness, slow to respond. He is compared to the periwinkle, a Ukrainian symbol of a long and happy marriage. Sonyashnyk brings the song to life as a dance medley, tracing the couple’s journey from conflict to a joyful, lifelong union.

A fun and entertaining twist on a traditional Ukrainian folk song. Sonyashnyk gives “Oh, Mother, I’m in Love with Hryts’” a modern touch with fresh choreography — a spirited fusion of tradition and innovation that captures the group’s playful, contemporary approach to Ukrainian folk dance.

Mriya (мрія — “dream”) is a contemporary number in our repertoire, danced as an expression of hope, resilience, and longing for a free and peaceful Ukraine.