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Teach Me to Dance

In this drama, Lesia convinces her English-Canadian friend Sarah to perform a Ukrainian dance with her as part of their school's Christmas pageant. Sarah's father, angry at the growing number of Ukrainian settlers, won't allow his daughter to participate. Despite the prejudices of their parents, the girls' friendship remains strong, and they meet in Sarah's barn to celebrate Christmas Day together. Part of the Adventures in History series.
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In this drama, Lesia convinces her English-Canadian friend Sarah to perform a Ukrainian dance with her as part of their school's Christmas pageant. Sarah's father, angry at the growing number of Ukrainian settlers, won't allow his daughter to participate. Despite the prejudices of their parents, the girls' friendship remains strong, and they meet in Sarah's barn to celebrate Christmas Day together. Part of the Adventures in History series.

Cultural Diversity and Multiculturalism Social Issues Children and Youth All subjects
Captivating Fiction films All channels
  • director
    Anne Wheeler
  • producer
    Vladimir Valenta
    John Howe
  • executive producer
    Roman Kroitor
  • screenplay
    Myrna Kostash
  • camera
    Savas Kalogeras
  • sound
    Hans Oomes
  • editing
    Ion Webster
  • sound editing
    André Galbrand
  • re-recording
    Hans Peter Strobl
  • music
    Maurice Marshall
  • cast
    Nadia Ostashewski
    Christine Lilge
    John Pichlyk
    Heather MacCallum

Education

Ages 10 to 14
School subjects
Diversity - Diversity in Communities Health/Personal Development - Bullying & Discrimination History - Canada 1867-1914 History and Citizenship Education - Culture and Currents of Thought (1500-present)
Study policies on Multiculturalism in Canada, including immigration / assimilation practices. How have they changed since the time of the film? Research Ukrainian culture, perform a dance, create music / art in Ukrainian style. Discuss whether immigrants should continue practicing their traditions and customs – why/why not? Identify bullying and discrimination in the film. How would you react if you were Lesia/ Sarah? Why is it easier for Lesia and Sarah to overlook their different backgrounds?

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Teach Me to Dance
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