PROJECT DETAILS
CHOREOGRAPHER: Roman Mykyta
COMPOSER: Katerina – Traditional
PREMIERE: September 5, 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: 3 Women
RUN TIME: 2 minutes
SYNOPSIS:
Katerina – Hovorod is a lyrical stage interpretation of one of Ukraine’s oldest communal dance traditions. Set to the traditional folk song Katerina, the choreography unfolds through flowing circular patterns that celebrate unity, shared memory, and the quiet poetry of village life.
Inspired by the grace and simplicity of traditional women’s hovorody, the work blends gentle musicality, interwoven formations, and delicate gestures into an atmosphere of warmth and collective celebration. Elegant and understated, the dance reflects the enduring beauty of Ukrainian folk culture and the timeless traditions that continue to unite communities across generations.
THE HOVOROD TRADITION
The hovorod is among Ukraine’s oldest communal dance forms, traditionally performed in circles while singing. It symbolizes unity, continuity, and the shared life of the community.
BACKGROUND & INSPIRATION
THE SONG KATERINA
Set to the traditional folk song Katerina, the choreography draws upon the lyrical character of Ukrainian vocal tradition, allowing the melody to shape the movement’s gentle flow.
A CONTEMPORARY STAGE INTERPRETATION
This choreography presents an original folk-stage interpretation inspired by the traditional hovorod, adapting the form for the concert stage through ensemble patterns and theatrical composition.