Peter has been part of Shumka for more than two decades, beginning his Ukrainian dance journey at the age of eight when he enrolled at the Shumka School of Dance. With dedication and unwavering commitment, he trained extensively in Ukrainian folk, ballet, and contemporary styles, eventually joining the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers in 2008. Since 2013, Peter has served as Principal…

Tamsin Carreck first began dance classes at the age of four in Doncaster, England. She started taking exams in RAD ballet, ISTD Modern Theatre, ISTD Tap, ISTD National Dance and ISTD Imperial ballet at the age of six. She performed in many dance competitions, including the All England Dance competition, where she received medal placing. As a child, Tamsin had…

Mrs. Kanevets comes from Kyiv, Ukraine, and has dedicated herself to the art of dance her entire life. In 1981, Mrs. Kanevets was accepted into the Kyiv State Institute of Culture, Faculty of Choreography, wherein 1985, she graduated with Honours and received her Ballet master’s degree. Mrs. Kanevets spent 11 years in the position of dance teacher and administrator of…

Tasha Orysiuk is a highly respected and accomplished dance educator, adjudicator and choreographer in Canada, having trained extensively in various disciplines under internationally-renowned artists in Canada, the United States, England, and Ukraine. Tasha achieved her Advanced Dance Certificates in tap, ballet, jazz, modern, and national dancing, in addition to holding numerous other teaching credentials, which make her a highly sought-after…

Toronto-born Paul Olijnyk began his association with Canada’s Ukrainian Shumka Dancers in 2001 when he moved to Edmonton and joined the company to pursue his passion for Ukrainian dance. Since then, Paul has taught Ukrainian dance throughout Alberta, adjudicates dance festivals throughout Western Canada, and has been a guest choreographer for dance ensembles in Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario. He…

Abigail began her dance journey in Fort McMurray with the Avrora Ukrainian dancers at the age of four. When she was eight years old, following her family to Edmonton, she enrolled in the Shumka School of Dance. Her experience in dance grew as she took part in different styles such as RAD ballet and contemporary movement, as well as Shumka…

Ava Moser started her Ukrainian dance journey at the age of three in Fort McMurray, taking ballet and tap lessons. After going to see her first Shumka show that year, she fell in love with Ukrainian dance. She then enrolled with the Avrora Ukrainian Dancers in 2007 before ultimately moving to Edmonton to join Shumka School in 2014. After graduating…