New Archangel Dancers

Russian and Eastern European Folk Dance

New Archangel Dancers is a volunteer dance troupe of local women in Sitka, Alaska, named for Novo-Arkhangelsk - the historic Russian name for the city when it served as the capital of Russian America. Since 1969, the dancers, none of whom are professional performers or of Russian descent, have kept alive and shared with audiences more than 35 folk dances from Russia, Belarus, Moldova, and Ukraine, performed in authentic handmade costumes.

The troupe grew from eight dancers and four performances in its first season into a repertoire that now includes the Troika Polka, Hopak, Hutzulka, Korobieniki, a Gypsy dance, and the stately Beryozka. Different numbers are introduced each week, so even repeat visitors get to see a new part of the program.

New Archangel Dancers have performed well beyond Sitka - in Hawaii, Japan, Russia, Mexico, and the Caribbean, as well as at Alaska Airlines terminal openings and inaugural celebrations for Alaska governors. Proceeds from shows fund costumes, music, training, and scholarships for local students.

An annual performance is timed to Alaska Day each October, and summer shows run regularly at Harrigan Centennial Hall - worth a stop if you want to see living history of Russian Alaska.