PROJECT DETAILS
CHOREOGRAPHER: Roman Mykyta
COMPOSER: Traditional
PREMIERE: September 6, 2026 | Baltimore Ukrainian Festival, St Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, Baltimore MD | Performed by Дух Танцю – Spirit of the Dance Ukrainian Folk Ballet
CAST: 4 Women, 2 Men
RUN TIME: 4 minutes
SYNOPSIS:
Hopak! is an original stage interpretation of Ukraine’s most celebrated national dance. Renowned for its exhilarating athleticism, vibrant musicality, and spirit of joyful competition, Hopak traces its origins to the traditions of the Ukrainian Kozaks before evolving into the signature finale of the Ukrainian folk-stage repertoire.
Created for a chamber ensemble of two men and four women, this staging balances virtuosic male dancing with lyrical ensemble passages, spirited partner work, and moments of playful camaraderie. Brimming with energy, humor, and communal celebration, Hopak! captures the festive spirit and enduring vitality of one of Ukraine’s greatest cultural traditions.
THE KOZAKS
Hopak originated among the Ukrainian Kozaks, whose celebrations of military victories and communal gatherings gave rise to a dance characterized by athletic feats, improvisation, and exuberant display.
BACKGROUND & INSPIRATION
UKRAINE’S NATIONAL DANCE
Over time, Hopak became the defining finale of the Ukrainian folk-stage repertoire and one of the foremost symbols of Ukrainian dance and cultural identity.
A CHAMBER STAGING
Rather than presenting a large ensemble spectacle, this choreography reimagines Hopak for six dancers while preserving its virtuosity and celebratory spirit.