Polish Folk Dance Ensemble SPK Iskry
Artistic Director/Choreographer: Krysia Kovach
Assistant Instructor: Robert Langtry
Iskry was founded in 1967 by Mr. Henryk Lorenc to mark the Centennial of Canadian Confederation. Iskry, when translated into English means “sparks”, is a perfect descriptor for the world-traveled group whose fiery performances are marked by phenomenal leaps, dives and beautiful folk dance.
In addition to performing at the Warsaw-Poland Pavilion during Folklorama, 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. 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. Currently, the ensemble is under the direction of Krysia Kovach and assisted by Robert Langtry.
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.
For more information about concerts, performances, bookings and more, please visit the SPK Iskry homepage