Artistic Director
Vitali Sorokotiaguine
Ballet master · Choreographer · Mentor
A lifetime devoted to dance.
Born and raised in Ukraine, Vitali’s formal dance education began at the Melitopil Cultural Institute. He went on to direct the Molodist Dance Ensemble in Zaporizhia and perform as a dancer and soloist with the Odessa Region Song and Dance Ensemble.
Vitali later served as Ballet Master and Regisseur with the Nadzbruchanka Dance Ensemble in Ternopil. His move to Canada brought a wealth of experience and a clear vision for preserving and invigorating Ukrainian dance traditions.
Under his guidance, Yevshan’s dancers are challenged to meet the highest technical and artistic standards. His mentorship reaches far beyond the stage, inspiring discipline, confidence and a lasting love for the art form.
Assistant instructor
Lecia Pepenfus
Lecia has danced for more than 40 years and taught for more than 25. She began ballet at age four, studied Ukrainian dance with Poltava and the Ukrainian Dance School in Saskatoon, then joined Yevshan at age 14.
Her years with the ensemble brought performance opportunities across Saskatchewan, Canada and internationally. Today, her goal in the studio is to help performers excel at dance while building the confidence and life skills to become excellent citizens of the world.
