On May 19, 2025, the Academic Folk Dance Ensemble «Sonechko» held a grand graduation concert at the Ivan Kocherha Academic Music and Drama Theater in Zhytomyr, Ukraine. The event celebrated a new generation of graduates from its distinguished choreographic school.
A Legacy of Cultural Education and Artistic Excellence
For over 50 years, the «Sonechko» ensemble has promoted the folk dance traditions of both Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. Recognized as one of Ukraine’s most prominent artistic groups, the ensemble has cultivated generations of talented performers. Many of these performers have gone on to become cultural ambassadors on international stages.
Maestro Mihail Guzun: Bridging Nations Through Art
The ensemble is led by Maestro Mihail Guzun, People’s Artist of Ukraine and Master of Arts of the Republic of Moldova. A native of Trifăuți in the Soroca district of Moldova, Maestro Guzun, together with his wife and co-director Tetiana Guzun, has dedicated decades to nurturing future artists. They have also strengthened cross-cultural dialogue through dance.
«Sonechko’s» repertoire is renowned for its distinctive integration of Ukrainian and Moldovan folk traditions. This creates a unique cultural synthesis that resonates with audiences at home and abroad.
Diplomatic Acknowledgment and International Presence
The festive event was attended by city and regional officials, cultural leaders, alumni, and guests from Kyiv. Representing the Republic of Moldova was H.E. Valeriu Chiveri, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Moldova to Ukraine. In his official address, Ambassador Chiveri warmly congratulated the graduates. He extended heartfelt appreciation to Maestro Guzun and the entire ensemble for their contribution to strengthening Ukrainian-Moldovan cultural relations.
Honorary Consulate Expresses Gratitude and Continued Support
The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Moldova in Dnipro expresses its deep gratitude to the «Sonechko» ensemble and Maestro Mihail Guzun for their unwavering commitment to fostering Ukrainian-Moldovan cultural cooperation.
We extend our sincere wishes to the graduating students for continued artistic inspiration, professional success, and a bright future in the world of performing arts.
