Who We Are

Chaban Ukrainian Dance Group of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada is a leader in the development of Ukrainian dance and the preservation of Ukrainian heritage. This success stems from the efforts of the committed individuals who contribute their time, skill, and organizational resources to the Group. Consisting of over one hundred dancers, from toddlers to those over 40, Chaban brings to audiences the beauty and spirit of Ukrainian culture and heritage through dance.

Chaban offers an extensive repertoire of traditional and stylized Ukrainian dance from many regions of Ukraine. Chaban’s instructors have been trained in Ukraine, Canada and the United States, many of whom have been trained and certified in Dance Curriculum from the Shumka School of Dance. Chaban’s Artistic Director, Cathy Paroschy Harris, holds certification as Ballet Master Coach and Choreographer from the Ukrainian Academy of Dance in Lviv, Ukraine.

For over 40 years, Chaban has been making significant contributions to Ukrainian dance in the Thunder Bay community and has entertained and dazzled audiences throughout Canada, the United States, Spain, and Ukraine. Chaban is a not-for-profit organization that works closely with the community at festivals and charitable events and entertains crowds year round with performances at Senior Homes, birthday and anniversary parties, weddings and conventions.

Chaban has long exemplified an outstanding group of dedicated and talented volunteer citizens, sharing their heritage and culture through the beautiful art, music and athleticism of Ukrainian dance. Chaban is highly regarded in its community, nationally and internationally for its creative preservation and interpretation of culture, tradition and dance.