The International Folk Dance Ensemble released a new music video featuring the national dance of Ukraine, the Hopak. Cossack warriors (also known as Ukrainian soldiers) start the video as they return from battle. The women welcome home the warriors with traditional bread and salt. A celebration of music and dance begins as everybody enters the barn.
The Hopak dates back to the 17th century when the Cossack would return home from war. To celebrate their victories the warriors would reenact fighting through dance. Warrior’s masculinity and strength was demonstrated through acrobatic movements called “hopaty,” meaning to jump.
