Sparks to Fly at Isrky’s 40-Year Celebration!
The Polish Dance Ensemble S.P.K. Iskry, founded in 1967 by Mr. Henryk Lorenc to mark the Centennial of Canadian Confederation, will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a gala concert event at the Manitoba Centennial Concert Hall this December. Iskry, when translated into English means “sparks”, and is a perfect descriptor for the world-traveled group whose fiery performances are marked by phenomenal leaps, dives and beautiful folk dance. Ticket can be purchased through ticketmaster and information can be found in our events section.
In addition to performing at the Warsaw-Poland Pavilion, Iskry has thrilled and captivated audiences across North America and Europe with a repertoire rich in depth, ranging from the romantic Kujawiak/Oberek to the exciting and dynamic Goralski. Iskry is known not only for its award-winning choreography, but also for its diversity of vibrantly coloured, hand-crafted costumes, many of which were imported from Poland. Presently, Iskry’s wardrobe boasts over 15 different costumes depicting the numerous regions of Poland.
The ensemble was under the artistic direction and choreography of Mr. Sandro Barbosa (who also went on to work with the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ tour) from 1999 to 2006. Under the choreography of Barbosa, Iskry became world champions after winning the Mazur Dance Competition in Rzeszow, Poland in 2002. For their success the ensemble was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award from the city of Winnipeg by Mayor Glen Murray. Currently, The ensemble is under the direction of Andrea Piotrowski and Krysia Kovach. The group has also had the privilege participating in the 2003 Levee for the former Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, the Honourable Peter M. Liba, CM., O.M.
Additional highlights of Iskry's career include performing at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, Quebec and participating in the prestigious World Festival of Polish Folk Dance and Song in Rzeszow, Poland.
The 40-member troupe invites friends of Folklroama to join in the celebration on Sunday, December 2, 2007 at the Manitoba Centennial Concert Hall. Guest performers will include Iskry Alumni dancers, the Junior group from the School of Dance SPK Iskry, and the Sokol Polish Folk Ensemble. Tickets will be available through Ticketmaster.
Some Iskry Tid-Bits
Choreographer/Artistic Director(s): Andrea Piotrowski & Krysia Kovach
Inauguration Date: 1976
Current Number of Members: 43
Highlights: 2002 World Champions in Mazur Dance Competition 2002, 1976 Olympic Games, private performance for Pope John Paul II.