The New Archangel Dancers preserve Russian heritage through the art of dance. The group began in 1969 when a group of Sitka women who had an interest in folk dancing also recognized Sitka's growing tourist industry. They saw a need for entertainment and decided to fill that need. Performances are scheduled to coincide with cruise-ship arrivals. Check the dance board schedule (which is updated daily) at Harrigan Centennial Hall, downtown. You can also purchase tickets for Sheet'ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Dance troop at Centennial Hall. Though it is held at the tribal house near the Pioneer Home on Lincoln Street.
The dancers explode onto the stage in a burst of energy and color. Fire and life best describe the dancers as they race to the rhythm of the Russian music. They skip, both individually and in circles; clap their hands; shout; and use many acrobatic movements that sometimes end in unbelievable leaps, while interpreting Russian and Ukrainian folk dances. The dancers sometimes tell a story; sometimes they seem to dance for the pure joy of it. Vibrant Russian floral prints and Ukrainian ribbons and plaids add color and authenticity to the costumes. Clothing colors light up the stage; radiant reds, bright blues, and verdant greens. A lot of black offsets the brighter colors.