Zoloto Ukrainian Dance Celebrates 35 Years of Dance and Cultural Heritage
Zoloto Ukrainian Dance Ensemble is celebrating 35 years of sharing and preserving Ukrainian culture in Winnipeg and beyond. Founded in 1991, the organization is dedicated to promoting Ukrainian heritage through authentic folk dance performances. With traditional music, choreography and costumes representing the many regions of Ukraine, Zoloto brings Ukrainian culture to life on stage while inspiring new generations to learn and celebrate their heritage.
Zoloto was created in 1991 by Keris Matskiw, together with her parents Matthew and Shirley Matskiw. What began with eight students between the ages of 12 and 17 quickly grew. Driven by Keris’ lifelong passion for Ukrainian dance and folk arts, the group set out to explore and showcase the distinct regional styles of Ukraine through high-energy performances and authentic choreography.
Over the years, Zoloto expanded to include a dance school, which began in 1994 after many families expressed interest in having their children learn to dance like the performers they saw on stage. Today, the school offers lessons in traditional Ukrainian folk dance to students of all ages, starting as young as three years old. Through these programs, thousands of young dancers have had the opportunity to learn about Ukrainian culture.
Zoloto has built a reputation for its dynamic, high-tempo performances, earning numerous medals, trophies, and awards at dance competitions across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The ensemble has also appeared at many major events, including Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Festival of Nations, and the 1999 Pan Am Games ceremonies.
Internationally, Zoloto has performed for audiences across three continents, touring the United States and participating in festivals in Costa Rica and Peru, where the ensemble earned the Best Folk Dance Group Award at the 2011 Festidanza Festival. The group has also toured the Ukraine twice, strengthening its connection to the cultural traditions that inspire its performances.
For many members and volunteers, Zoloto strives to create a welcoming, family-oriented environment where dancers can work hard, improve their skills, and enjoy the experience of performing together. Alongside dance instruction, Zoloto has hosted Ukrainian language classes, workshops on traditional crafts, Easter egg decorating (pysanky), and cultural cooking activities, giving students hands-on opportunities to connect with their heritage.
As Zoloto marks its 35th anniversary, the ensemble continues to perform and teach throughout the year. From competitions and festivals to public and private performances, the group remains highly active in the community. Audiences can also look forward to new performances and special appearances throughout the year as the ensemble celebrates this milestone.
After 35 years, Zoloto Ukrainian Dance Ensemble continues to bring energy, passion, and cultural pride to every stage they perform on, ensuring that Ukrainian traditions remain for generations to come.
Learn more about Zoloto Ukrainian Dance Ensemble on their website.