• Progressive Pathway: Our planned progressive program takes students from School to performing company.
• Inclusive Community: We foster a warm and welcoming community atmosphere where everyone can feel a sense of belonging.
• Diverse Programming: Our programs cater to a wide range of ages, starting from as young as three years old, and offer a variety of class options to suit different preferences, interests, and schedules.
• R.A.D. Ballet Training: We provide training in the Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) ballet program, including opportunities for ballet examinations.
• Unique Ukrainian Dance Curriculum: We are proud to offer Canada’s only Ukrainian dance curriculum, known as Shumka’s Syllabus for Ukrainian Dance, providing a distinct and comprehensive approach to this art form.
• Youth Development: We offer the popular Junior Instructor and Leader-in-Training programs designed to empower and develop our youth.
• Exceptional Instructors: Our team consists of highly qualified and experienced Ukrainian dance instructors who are dedicated to delivering the highest quality training.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have the exciting opportunity to showcase their talents with two performances per season at the prestigious Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.
• Shumka Productions: There are opportunities for students to actively participate in Shumka’s own productions.
• School-wide productions: Our large School-wide dance productions, including all-girls and all-boys dances, are truly special. These productions are typically organized every two to three years, not on an annual basis.

CORE PROGRAM

Starting at the age of six, the Core Program brings together the best of dance instruction, training, choreography and performance opportunities within a positive and supportive learning environment. Admission to the Core Program is based on age and dance ability as determined by the Shumka School Principal, and there is no audition requirement.

In the Core Program, students are obligated to enroll in the Core Ukrainian Shumka Syllabus class. Additionally, while the School suggests that students also consider enrolling in a Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) Ballet class, this is not mandatory for participation in the Core Program. All students follow Shumka’s Syllabus for Ukrainian Dance, which includes training and learning one or two Ukrainian dance choreographies. These two components, training and choreography, are the foundation of a Core Ukrainian class.

The Pre-Beginner and Beginner program, available from ages 3 to 5, focuses on teaching the fundamental skills necessary to establish a strong foundation and foster enjoyment of Ukrainian dance. The material covered in these programs prepares students for the Shumka Syllabus, which officially begins at age six with Grade 1. It is recommended for students to commence Grade 1 at age six, as this ensures the most suitable long-term physical progression in line with the material taught at each age level.

INTENSIVE DIVISION

The professional world of dance is known for its vibrant energy and dedication to the art form. Within this realm, the Intensive Division provides comprehensive training to dancers who aspire to broaden their dance horizons. To thrive in this program, individuals must possess a sense of commitment, unwavering passion, and self-motivation, as it upholds high standards. Dancers who engage in the Intensive Division undergo a transformational journey by honing their skills in various aspects of Ukrainian dance. This includes refining their technique, embracing performance artistry, cultivating a unique style, mastering the art of storytelling through dance, deepening their understanding of ethnographic nuances, building self-confidence, and nurturing their creative spirit. The majority of the present Shumka Dance Company members have come from this program.

Participation in the Intensive Division necessitates successfully passing an annual audition. It is important to note that the Intensive Division complements the Core Program, and as such, Ukrainian dance classes within the Core Program incorporate a blend of both Core and Intensive students.

Students within the Intensive Division are required to enroll in specific classes, which typically include the main choreography class, one class in R.A.D. Ballet, and an additional class of the dancer’s choosing. The third-class option offers flexibility and can be another R.A.D. Ballet class, a Contemporary Dance class, or a Tricks class, catering to the dancer’s interests and growth. Furthermore, students in the highest-level of the Intensive Division are enrolled in the Shumka Repertoire class, further enhancing their skills, repertoire, and style.

Placements within the Intensive Division are determined solely based on the dancer’s demonstrated abilities during the audition process.

New and Prospective Shumka School Families

Please contact June Eeles at the Shumka Office (780.455.9559) for your class placement guide sheet and for more information.

Placement and Registration

After the dance season concludes, parents receive a Class Placement Guide Sheet for their child. This sheet provides essential details for the upcoming season, including class schedules and instructor information. Parents use this guide sheet to register their child online at shumka.com, often with an early registration fee incentive.

Core Program placements are based on age and dance ability as determined by the Shumka School Principal, and there is no audition requirement.

Placements within the Intensive Division are determined solely based on the dancer’s demonstrated abilities during the audition process.

Ballet placements are based solely on age and corresponding ability as determined by the Shumka School Ballet Mistress.

The goal is to allow each dancer to progress at their own pace for a rewarding experience.

Class placements can be adjusted during the first few weeks of the new season, with input from instructors and the School Principal.

Since 1994, the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers have placed a strong emphasis on the development and implementation of the Shumka Syllabus for Ukrainian Dance. This syllabus has been meticulously crafted to provide comprehensive skill training for dancers of all ages, starting from the age of six and beyond. The program was originally conceived by Mr. Douglas Rachinski, with the ballet component by Mrs. Tasha Orysiuk.

Shumka’s Syllabus serves as a crucial tool in elevating the technical execution of Ukrainian dance, enriching the overall dance experience, and nurturing a lasting vision for future generations of Ukrainian dancers, teachers, and enthusiasts. It is not a product of happenstance but a product of extensive research and development, ensuring the precise progression of dance skills and techniques.

One of its core strengths lies in its ability to provide consistency in training. It offers a structured path from one level to the next, using standardized terminology and establishing uniformity in the style and technique of dance steps. Dancers following this syllabus are guided through a predetermined course of study, which encompasses exercises at the barre, in the centre, and in the corner. These exercises are thoughtfully choreographed to custom-orchestrated music, serving as a vital complement to the learning process. Each new exercise and skill acquired through the syllabus is akin to adding a new piece to a puzzle.

The Shumka Syllabus for Ukrainian Dance is, therefore, a testament to the dedication of the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers to the art of Ukrainian dance, ensuring that it thrives and evolves for generations to come.

Curriculum Outline

Tier 1: Grades 1 Cert & Dip, Grade 2 Cert & Dip, Grade 3 Cert & Dip
Tier 2: Grades 4 Cert & Dip, Grade 5 Cert & Dip, Grade 6 Cert & Dip
Tier 3: Grades 7 Cert & Dip, Grade 8 Cert & Dip, Grade 9 Cert & Dip

The set exercises are at the heart of the Syllabus. They follow a specific order to ensure the safety of dancers and the effectiveness of the classes, mirroring the typical class format. This program is designed to guide students through a well-structured sequence of exercises.

The set exercises are categorized into two levels: ‘Certificate’ and ‘Diploma.’ This division helps ease the workload for dancers who typically train once or twice a week while also learning choreography and additional training outside of the Syllabus. The Certificate exercises are introductory-level, whereas the Diploma exercises represent more advanced levels of training.

Generally, students will engage in one Diploma variation within a Tier. For instance, they might complete Grade 4 Cert, Grade 5 Cert, Grade 6 Cert, and Grade 6 Dip, though this can vary depending on the individual class. This progression model ensures that students are not overwhelmed by a sudden jump in complexity. It allows them to master one level before moving on to the next, ensuring a gradual and safe development of physical abilities, while allowing students to complete the program as intended, usually by the age of 16-17.

Syllabus Examinations

The Syllabus Academy conducts independent evaluations on an annual basis. In March, we provide families with exam recommendations. Typically, syllabus exam results from the previous season are delivered to families during the first month of the new season. 

How are Students Chosen for Syllabus Exams?

Our instructors closely assess each dancer’s skills and abilities, making them well-equipped to offer guidance to families regarding their readiness for the upcoming examination. To ensure a successful and positive exam experience, instructors recommend students they believe are well-prepared to take the exam in May.

In March, families receive a form indicating the recommendation for the syllabus examination. For Core Program students, the decision to participate is ultimately made by the family if they receive a recommendation. However, students in the Intensive Division, when recommended for the examination, are required to participate. This requirement stems from the fact that dance examinations are a standard expectation in any professional dance school’s curriculum.

The exam fees for Core Program students must be paid by the deadline specified in the School Calendar.

The exam fees for Intensive Division students are due along with tuition at the beginning of the season. If your child is in the Intensive Division and does not receive a recommendation for the examination, a full refund of the exam fee will be provided.

Exam Benefits

Syllabus exams play a pivotal role by providing a structured and reassuring third-party evaluation of the dancer’s advancement and capabilities. Additionally, they offer positive reinforcement for skills that have been mastered. The feedback provided is highly detailed, pinpointing specific areas that may still need refinement and offering concrete strategies for improvement. These exams serve as a focal point for dancers, giving them a clear objective to work towards, bolstering their self-assurance, and instilling a sense of accomplishment.

What is an Audit Exam?

Students who are nearing the completion of a grade level but haven’t received a recommendation to take the exam have the option to audit the examination. During this audit, their performance is evaluated in the same way as other students, but they won’t receive a final grade.

For instance, let’s consider the case of young Mr. Peter! While he has shown promising progress in his barre work, there are areas where he could use improvement, such as musicality, centre combinations, and presentation. Although he is making progress, it has been determined by his instructors that it wouldn’t be beneficial for Mr. Peter to participate in a graded exam this year. Instead, he will be given the opportunity to audit the exam. During this audit, his performance will be critiqued just like any other student, but, he won’t be assigned a final grade.

Core Ukrainian (ages 6+)

This is the primary Ukrainian dance class offered at Shumka School. All students in this class follow Shumka’s Syllabus for Ukrainian Dance, which includes a variety of exercises. These exercises encompass work at the barre, in the centre, and in the corner. In addition to these fundamental exercises, students will also engage in corner work lexicon, style training, performance instruction, and musicality training.

In the Core class, dancers will learn one full-length dance per year, drawing from various ethnic regions of Ukraine. These regions include Bukovyna, Central Ukraine, Hutsul’shchyna, Kuban, Podillia, Pokuttia, Polissia, Southern Ukraine, Slobozhanschyna, Volyn, Zakarpattia, and mixed or character styles.

It is important to note that these two elements, the rigorous training and the choreography, together form the essential building blocks of the Core Ukrainian class at Shumka School.

Pre-Beginner (ages 3-4) and Beginner (age 5)

The program is designed to impart essential skills to young dancers, enabling them to establish a strong foundation and a genuine passion for Ukrainian dance. What students learn during their time in Pre-Beginner and Beginner classes serves as a crucial preparation for their long-term success in this art form. The curriculum for Pre-Beginner and Beginner classes was initially developed by Mrs. Tasha Orysiuk, with subsequent revisions being made collaboratively by Mrs. Tasha Orysiuk and Mr. Peter Eeles.

The placement of new students in these classes is determined solely by age: Pre-Beginner students fall within the age range of three and four, while Beginner students are typically five years old.

Throughout their time in these classes, students will have the opportunity to learn a complete Ukrainian dance. For their Winter Concert and Year End Show performances, Pre-Beginners are provided with a Ukrainian regional hat or headpiece at no extra cost and perform in their regular rehearsal attire (girls wear light tan tights for performance instead of the pink tights). Beginner students rent a full Ukrainian costume, as is customary for the rest of the School. These classes do not participate in dance competitions.

Royal Academy of Dance Ballet (ages 5+)

The Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) stands as one of the most influential dance education organizations globally. It is renowned for its role in setting high standards in classical ballet and its leadership in Continuing Professional Development for the dance community. Established in 1920 with the mission of establishing teaching standards for dance in the United Kingdom, the R.A.D. has since expanded its reach to 85 countries, boasting 36 offices and a thriving global membership of more than 14,000 dedicated individuals.

Within its comprehensive offerings, the R.A.D. welcomes more than 1,000 students into its teacher training programs, and an impressive quarter of a million students worldwide undergo examinations based on its meticulously crafted syllabi. One such institution that aligns itself with the R.A.D. is the Shumka School of Dance, a registered R.A.D. Ballet school, offering a rich spectrum of training and examination opportunities.

Interestingly, the roots of Ukrainian dance share a common ancestry with ballet. Much like the various instruments in an orchestra, Ukrainian dance and ballet coalesce harmoniously, each enhancing the other’s strengths. Ballet imparts invaluable qualities such as flexibility, strength, speed, agility, balance, mental focus, and endurance. It not only teaches the body to execute intricate steps safely but also reduces the risk of injuries. Consequently, ballet equips dancers to execute faster turns, exhibit greater flexibility in kicks, and achieve greater heights in jumps. In sum, ballet enriches the skills of Ukrainian dancers and serves as a fundamental requirement for those aspiring to join pre-professional and professional dance companies.

Mrs. Tamsin Carreck is Shumka School’s certified Royal Academy of Dance Ballet Mistress. She plays a crucial role in determining each dancer’s appropriate ballet class level and whether they should embark on examinations at that stage. Aspiring dancers interested in registering for Pointe or Ballet choreography classes are required to enroll in two weekly ballet classes to lay a solid and safe foundation,

Contemporary Dance (ages 11+)

Contemporary dance is an art form that delves deep into the vast spectrum of bodily movements. It serves as a means of personal expression, allowing individuals to convey their unique visions through a process marked by experimentation and collaboration. In the quest to craft novel and highly individualized ways of moving, contemporary dance draws inspiration from modern dance, incorporating elements such as contact-release, floor work, fall and recovery, and improvisation. This dance style harnesses the power of body movements to communicate a rich tapestry of images, ideas, and emotions. For students, it serves as a dynamic platform for creative exploration, fostering a profound understanding of their own bodies, the surrounding space, and their fellow dancers.

Crucially, contemporary dance plays a pivotal role in narrating Ukrainian stories. It offers a diverse array of movements that complement traditional Ukrainian dance and enhance the skills of Ukrainian dancers. Students of contemporary dance embark on a journey of self-discovery through movement and music. They develop physical prowess, channel their energy, ignite their imaginations, and cultivate their creative spirits.

Ukrainian Technique & Tricks (ages 11+)

At Shumka School, we believe in nurturing the passion for dance in our students while providing a solid foundation in technique. This class is designed to immerse your child in the world of Ukrainian dance and help them discover the magic of solos and tricks that are emblematic of our rich cultural heritage.

Ever wondered how the Shumka dancers learn and perfect those breathtaking solos and tricks? Our class is modeled around the renowned Virsky method, a time-honored approach that has shaped generations of Ukrainian dancers. Through this method, we ensure the safe and proper execution of Ukrainian dance solos, with separate instruction tailored to both girls and boys. Every dancer has their own unique style and signature moves waiting to be discovered. Students will embark on a journey of self-discovery as they identify and perfect their signature tricks and solos.

Dance, like any art form, has its foundations. In addition to perfecting specific tricks and solos, students will also delve into the fundamental concepts that underlie most dance moves.

This class is a dynamic and inspirational experience. It is a fast-paced journey that challenges students to reach their full potential while fostering a deep appreciation for Ukrainian dance. We emphasize the importance of building crucial Ukrainian technique, elevating performance levels, and instilling the unique Shumka-style that sets our dancers apart.

Shumka Repertoire (ages 14+)

In the highest-level Intensive Division, students are provided with a truly unique opportunity. They have the privilege of learning and performing original choreographic works from the repertoire of the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers, both from their current routines and those from the past, including the renowned Classic Hopak. These classes are instructed by senior members in the Company.

Learning  repertoire of the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers is an exceptional and challenging advantage, exclusively offered at Shumka School. This experience offers multiple benefits. Firstly, it equips students with a head start in mastering the Shumka-style, which can be particularly advantageous if they aspire to join the company. Moreover, it ensures that students become proficient in Shumka choreography. For these reasons, this class is a program requirement for students in the highest levels of the Intensive Division.

Spring Fusion offers students the option to continue training after the dance season has ended. Classes offered include: ballet, contemporary, PBT (Progressive Ballet Technique), and Ukrainian technique and tricks. Classes typically begin one week after the Year End Show and run for approximately six weeks until the end of June. The School releases the schedule at the beginning of April. Registration is through June Eeles at the main office.

Shumka Summer Dance Camps is an internationally attended program offering different styles of camps to suit every taste, age, and ability. The program strives to ensure that all campers are inspired to pursue the art of Ukrainian dance and become passionate about Ukrainian culture while making friends and having fun. Every camp has a unique Ukrainian spin on it! Dancers can choose from a one-week day camp experience at the Shumka Dance Centre or an overnight adventure at the beautiful Camp Oselia, Wabamun Lake. Programs are offered for ages 3-18, and online registration begins early in the new year at shumka.com.

The junior instructor program provides an exclusive opportunity for students aged 14 and older to assume the role of assistant instructors, benefitting from close supervision, comprehensive training, and invaluable mentorship from highly qualified and seasoned instructors. The teaching program is highly sought-after, and staffing is limited due to the tremendous demand. To ensure fairness in scheduling, the Principal carefully considers classroom requirements, the balance of female-to-male students, teaching experience, syllabus certification, and location. There are as many spots available as there are classes. Participating as a junior instructor for one year does not guarantee ongoing involvement in the program.

DUTIES OF A JUNIOR INSTRUCTOR

Training Responsibilities:

• Junior instructors will work under the lead instructor’s supervision and mentorship, providing dance training assistance to students.
• When demonstrating exercises or dance steps, it is crucial to do so with full commitment, correct technique, and exact timing.
• Start and stop the music as needed.

Studio Preparation:

• Junior instructors are responsible for setting up the dance studio environment as per the requirements of the lead instructor.

Barres and Props:

• Ensure that barres and props are ready for use before the start of each class.

Pre-Beginner and Beginner Classes:

• For Pre-Beginner and Beginner classes, tasks include placing student spot placements, gathering props and giving out stickers.

Sherwood Park Location Setup:

• Set up mirrors, barres, and the AV cart.

Assistance to Younger Students:

• Assist younger students by taking them to the washroom and water fountain.

Individual Student Attention:

• Provide one-on-one assistance to students as directed by the lead instructor.

Studio Cleanliness:

• Ensure that the studio is clean and tidy at the beginning and end of each class. This includes sanitizing barres and tidying up the space by picking up clothing, rollers, water bottles, chairs, garbage, and other miscellaneous items.

Specific Duties for Core Ukrainian Classes:

• In Core Ukrainian classes (Grades 1 – 9), junior instructors may be required to start and stop the music for syllabus examinations.

Participation in Performances:

• Junior instructors in Pre-Beginner and sometimes Beginner classes will dance on stage with the students at the Winter Concert and the Year End Show.
• When staging props or spot placements at concerts, junior instructors should face the audience, ensuring a graceful and swift placement.

Uniform and Attire:

• All junior instructors must adhere to Shumka School uniform requirements during all teaching engagements. Wearing running shoes for teaching is prohibited.

The Summer Camp Leader-in-Training program offers valuable volunteer opportunities for youth aged 14 and older to gain practical on-the-job training experience that applies to various aspects of life. This program is designed to foster leadership skills, teamwork, self-reflection, kindness, empathy, creativity, and a strong work ethic for a common purpose. The ultimate goal is to ensure that every camper develops a deeper appreciation for Ukrainian culture and a passion for the art of Ukrainian dance.

When to Apply: Applications for the summer program typically open in late April, and prospective volunteers can complete the online application at shumka.com.