How many parents have enrolled kids in a recreational program only to discover their child isn’t all that interested?
Ukrainian dance teacher Darrell Marko has three daughters of his own and understands parental needs.
On Thursday, June 19 the St. Albert dance instructor is offering a free, tryout Ukrainian dance class at DanceCo for children ages four to nine years.
“We’re opening it up to any child who wants to experience Ukrainian dance. Some people don’t realize you don’t have to be Ukrainian to dance in a Ukrainian group,” said Marko.
“Basically, I’ll introduce a warm-up and then I’ll present some Ukrainian steps. Then we’ll do a quick little dance. In the last 10 minutes, I’ll have the parents come in and see what the children have accomplished.”
Holding a Masters in Education, Marko performed with both Cheremosh and Vinok Dance World. After having taught Ukrainian dance to several generations, Marko was nominated for Excellence in Arts Teaching at the Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts Awards.
And even though he’s hit the big 5-0, Marko continues to perform at the annual Ukrainian Night at Holy Family Parish.
“It’s such an adrenalin rush. When I get on stage and people respond, it’s great. I don’t get that feeling with ballet or jazz. In Ukrainian dance, the audience comes to life during the kicking and the ground movement for boys and the turns and spins for the girls.”
Marko recognizes that dance continues to have a stigma for some boys.
“But it’s a very masculine thing to do – the jumps and high-kicks.”
In fact, Marko enjoys telling the story of one of his students, Jordan Slessor, 14, who scored first place in district high jumping and credited Ukrainian dance for helping him achieve the necessary jump height.
“There are spinoffs and everyone can take it. There are crossovers that help with athletics and all your levels of confidence increase.”
Marko is offering three classes: four- and five-year-olds from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.; six- and seven-year-olds from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and eight- and nine-year-olds from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Students are encouraged to wear loose-fitting comfortable clothes. Dance shoes are optional. Students can attend barefooted. No registration is required.
DanceCo is located at 9030 McKenney Ave.
