PROJECT DETAILS
CHOREOGRAPHER: Roman Mykyta
COMPOSER: Traditional, arranged by Gerdan–Kaleidoscope of World Music
PREMIERE: December 21, 2022 | Christmas in Ukraine, The Kennedy Center, Washington, DC | Performed by Дух Танцю – Spirit of the Dance Ukrainian Folk Ballet and Gerdan–Kaleidoscope of World Music
CAST: 1 Woman, 1 Man
RUN TIME: 2 minutes
SYNOPSIS:
Shchedryk is a choreographic miniature inspired by the Ukrainian New Year carol Shchedryk, whose melody became known throughout the English-speaking world as Carol of the Bells. Conceived as a demi-classical pas de deux, the work reflects the traditional themes of renewal, prosperity, and blessing found within the original song.
The choreography imagines the swallow of the ancient text as a mysterious yet benevolent visitor bringing hope and abundance to the master of the house. Bridging Ukrainian ritual tradition with one of the world’s most recognizable melodies, Shchedryk celebrates the enduring journey of a song that has become a shared cultural treasure.
FROM SHCHEDRYK TO CAROL OF THE BELLS
The melody of Shchedryk was arranged by Mykola Leontovych in the early twentieth century before becoming internationally known through the English-language adaptation Carol of the Bells.
BACKGROUND & INSPIRATION
THE SWALLOW’S BLESSING
In its original Ukrainian text, a swallow visits a household to foretell prosperity, abundance, and a fruitful new year. The choreography transforms this image into a symbolic encounter.
RENEWAL AND HOPE
Originally associated with the Ukrainian New Year and the coming of spring, Shchedryk celebrates renewal, generosity, and new beginnings, even as it is now closely associated with Christmas worldwide.