Ukrainian traditional dance By Nazar Budayev Kyiv, Ukraine Lyseum № 208

Hopak In Ukraine and abroad, Ukrainian dance art represents mainly “Hopak" which emerged in the early 15th century. Such popularity has contributed, the use of folk dance in the performances of the Ukrainian theater, the show-groups and even individual artists. Russian Empire did everything to erase any Ukrainian spirit from the people’s mind’s. As a result, Hopak, described in the 15th century as a Ukrainian martial art, had become just a traditional Ukrainian dance by 19th century. Now it seems that the Ukrainians are rediscovering this art for themselves.

Etymology Hopak – is a Ukrainian dance, which performed as a solitary concert dance. The name “Hopak” is derived from verb “гопати” (hopaty) which means to jump.

Facts None of the dances performed by Kozaks were ever recorded “Hopak” were performed only by young male participants.