She/Her

Mara Palahniuk has been training in the styles of ballet and Ukrainian dance since she was three. Her love of dance has taken her all over the world including studies and performances with Alberta Ballet, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Joffrey Ballet in New York and the Royal Academy of Dance in London, England. However, she was always drawn to her Ukrainian culture and dance, thus leading her to join Shumka in 2015. Shumka’s 60th Tour is important to Mara as it keeps the spirit of Ukrainian dance alive.  Mara is honored to share the stage with many great dancers and to be part of the excellence and dedication of many, many dancers for the past 60 years. Mara is currently studying English and Creative Writing at the University of Alberta, with aspirations to become a teacher.