Ukrainian New Years - Rick Mercer Style

Rick Mercer Report

Once again, Canada spreads its arms wide to recognize and embrace its historic ancestry! It isn't very long ago that Ukrainians arrived on Canada's fair shores to settle in agrarian communities across the western prairies. My how things have changed in these past 120 years, or have they?

Canada now has the third largest population of people of Ukrainian ancestry in the world. I recently heard an Alberta Member of the Legislative Assembly assert that one on four Albertans is of Ukrainian ancestry.

Ukrainian is everywhere, from pyrogies to cabbage rolls, from the giant pysanka in Vegreville, to the Toronto Ukrainian festival on Bloor.

This week, Canada's emissary of humor is visiting Saskatoon to participate in the local Ukrainian New Year celebrations - let's call it MALANKA!  He looks good in the embroidered winter wear of the Ukrainian tradition, eh!

Also, Rick bundles up and braves the elements to go ice fishing on Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba

Be sure to catch it on CBC on Tuesday January 22nd at 8PM (8:30 NL). or here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=at7n-DAYA9k

SUZIRYA MALANKA 2013

November 2004 a special constellation of many stars was born in Calgary - the Suzirya Сузіря Ukrainian Dance Theatre!  They are again hosting the Suzirya Ukrainian New Years Malanka Маланка in Calgary on Friday, January 18th, 2013.  For more information you can check www.suzirya.com.

Since their formation in 2004, under the direction of Serguei Makarov,  Сергій Макаров, Suzirya has entertained audiences worldwide.  Their choreographic work takes into account the spirit of the times, and the spirit of Ukraine. An expressive fusion of ballet which supports the traditional folk dance of Ukraine, they are an interesting group to enjoy.  Their thoughtful presentations of folklore, pensive movements to honor tragedies of the past, and purely joyful celebrations of youth showcase their professional training and experience. For those new to Ukrainian dance, to former dancers themselves, Suzirya gains many accolades for performances that inspire and enthuse.

See you at their Malanka!!