Ukrainian Dancers of Miami to perform in season finale

BY RON BEASLEY

The Ukrainian Dancers of Miami, an ethnic troupe that has been dancing across Florida and the United States for more than a half-century, will end its season on Mar. 5 with an Amaturo Theater performance in the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

The program is titled A Ukrainian Montage.

Founded to promote and perpetuate the region's culture, The Ukrainian Dancers are made of 30 adults and children who perform traditional, historical movements indigenous to different regions of the Ukraine. The troupe gives performances throughout the school year, dancing at festivals and clubs, and ends each season with a grand finale.

"All of the dancers are of Ukrainian descent," said Pinecrest resident Diana Tershakovec, president of the group's board of directors. "They dance in red boots and colorful costumes. Many have ornate head pieces with long flowing ribbons, different colored skirts and hand-embroidered blouses and jackets."

Tershakovec said the Ukrainian Dancers, who meet Friday evenings at the Ukrainian American Club at 3595 NW 35 St., are dedicated to promoting their heritage through dance. She said this year's troupe has performed at local festivals throughout Florida and appeared last summer in New York City.

For more information on the dance troupe or for ticket information on the season finale, call 305-661-0007, or visit the group's Web site at < www.UkrainianDancersMiami.org >.