CLASSES

At the heart of the Ukrainian Cultural Association is our dance classes.  The Lloydminster Malanka Dancers offer classes from ages 3-adult for all abilities and cultural backgrounds. If you are looking for something new, rooted in vibrant culture  and traditions, and want to have fun, try Ukrainian dancing!

We offer classes on Wednesday nights. In addition to regular class time, the Malanka dancers enjoy many workshops to help them hone their skills. The Club also boasts many opportunities to perform at festivals, the Dine and Dance and our yearly Heritage Concert.  Because culture is a huge part of our Club, throughout the year, we host many Zabava's (parties) and special events to mark integral events in the Ukrainian calendar.

Born and raised in Lloydminster, Mr. Derek Armstrong began dance training with the Lloydminster Malanka Dancers.  Mr. Armstrong completed twelve years of dance in Lloydminster and instructed for four years prior to beginning University.  He obtained his Bachelor of Education from the University of Saskatchewan, and currently works as a middle school teacher with the Lloydminster Public School Division.  During his post-secondary, Mr. Armstrong continued training and performing with various dance groups including the Sopilka Ukrainian Dance Ensemble in Vegreville and Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble in Saskatoon.  Ukrainian dance has taken him to Ukraine where he toured, performed, and participated in workshops.  He has performed on a Caribbean cruise ship and many festivals and shows across western Canada.  Mr. Armstrong is pleased to be working with the Malanka Dancers.

DEREK ARMSTRONG

The Malanka Dancers work hard to keep our fees low for our dancers.  Fees include costume rental and Zabava fees.  A typical dance year runs from September -May.

$423 Ages 3-6

$484 Ages 6-8

$523 Ages 8-10

$588 Ages 9-13

$594 Ages 13-15

$660 Ages 15-18

$533 18+

**Note: This breakdown is approximate

​

I am not one who can say that I have been dancing since I could move  my feet, but I can say that it took only one class for me to discover my new and long standing passion with Ukrainian Dance. My journey began at the age of ten when we moved to Peace River, it continued in Grande Prairie and it now fulfills my life as my full time career around the province. 

I am always searching for new inspiration and ways to continue my professional development. I am very fortunate to have studied dance in Ukraine four times, each experience being very different from the others. In 2007, I attended the Virsky Summer Camp in Kyiv, the following year my dance club travelled with Cobblestone Freeway participating in a variety of workshops, and in 2011 and 2015 I joined Cobblestone Freeway for the Ukrainian Dance Workshop Tours. I have participated in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s teacher training summer program, as well as numerous instructor workshops throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan each summer. Within these experiences, I have studied in depth Hutzel, Bukovynia, Pokuttia, Podillia, Poltava, Volyn, Hopak tricks and Boiko. I can hardly wait for my next adventure to Ukraine!

I strive to be a positive role model for all of my dancers as I feel very blessed to be able to share what I love with others. I believe that dance is a great tool for life and I want to provide that fun and inspirational space for my dancers that I had growing up. I have taught and currently teach dancers of all ages and find rewards with each age level. I truly find joy in teaching dance and creating choreography!

    
     To be a part of the continuity of our culture and heritage, I am currently the Vice President on the executive of the Alberta Ukrainian Dance Association, serving my fifth year on the board. I aspire to maintain an active role in our Ukrainian community throughout Alberta and I hope to be known across Canada one day.