From Cleveland to Lviv (Kashtan in Ukraine: Parts 1 & 2)

Has it really been 30 years?!

Let’s rewind, shall we? In 1990, the Hubble Telescope launched into space, the World Wide Web was invented, and “Step by Step” by New Kids on the Block was the #1 song. In Ukraine, the country declared sovereignty on July 16th, and only 10 days later, Kashtan arrived in Lviv!

Fresh of its 10th anniversary, Kashtan was invited to participate in the “Hromada” Festival, a 10-day international festival of song and dance. Other participants included groups from Canada, Europe, South America, and Ukraine. Kashtan was the only American-Ukrainian representative.

On each day of the festival, 30 dancers and 10 support staff traveled to towns and villages around Lviv and gave a series of outdoor performances before approximately 150,000 Ukrainians. At the closing ceremony of the festival, the organizing committee voted to award Kashtan the top honor — the “Grand Prix”!

We begin our series at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Kashtan’s departure was an exciting event! For some, it was their first time flying internationally. For others, it was an opportunity to visit relatives. For the community, it was a chance to send off their beloved dance group to proudly represent Cleveland Ukrainians! Watch everyone gather at the airport, and look for some familiar faces. Do you remember the days when you were allowed to say goodbye all the way to the gate?!

Shortly after their arrival in Lviv, Kashtan had the wonderful opportunity to use Yunist Ensemble’s rehearsal space and stage to record new music. Watch highlights from this rehearsal. The orchestra recorded music to “Pryvit” and “Hopak” and tailored the tempo and timing specifically to our group. We still use this music today!