Workshop by PLAST Ukraine
Duration: approximately 40 minutes
Target audience: teenagers
Context: presentation of Ukrainian culture within the framework of an international scout camp
1. Introduction
Duration: up to 5 minutes
2. Symbolic activity: “Ribbon of Hope”
Duration: 5 minutes
In Ukrainian tradition, a ribbon is more than just a decorative element. It has always carried
symbolic meaning. In flower wreaths, girls used colored ribbons intentionally—each color
represented a feeling, dream, hope, or personal message. In certain regions, ribbons were used
to honor family memory, express a prayer, or mark a personal wish.
In this workshop, each participant receives a colored ribbon (30–50 cm). They choose a color
based on its symbolic meaning or personal feeling. On the ribbon, they write a word using a
marker—this can be a wish, an emotion, the name of a loved one, or something they want to
leave in the shared space.
All ribbons are tied to a tree branch, which symbolizes roots, growth, memory, and unity. The
branch is fixed in a pot, a container with sand, or planted into the ground.
Materials:
– tree branch
– stabilization base
– fabric ribbons of various colors
– markers
3. Dance segment: “Arkan in a Circle”
Duration: 10–12 minutes
“Arkan” is a traditional dance from the Carpathian Mountains, rooted in Hutsul communities.
Historically, it was performed by men standing in a circle, symbolizing unity, strength, and
mutual respect. It is not a staged performance, but a living form of cultural expression.
In the workshop, the dance is adapted: all participants stand in a circle and perform basic
movements—steps to the left and right, claps, turns, and squats.
An optional element: participants may take turns stepping into the center and proposing a
rhythmical movement for the group to repeat. The goal is not technical precision, but shared
energy and cohesion.
Materials:
– speaker or mobile device with audio
– music: instrumental version of “Arkan” or a traditional Ukrainian rhythm-based melody
4. Dance segment: “Kartoplia”
Duration: 5–10 minutes
“Kartoplia” is a humorous Ukrainian folk dance often performed at celebrations. It involves
exaggerated squats and rhythmic movements that mimic the act of digging or picking potatoes.
The dance is lively, simple to follow, and invites full-body engagement.
All participants join in a line or circle and follow the leader through a series of repetitive,
energetic moves. It is not a performance, but a communal moment of movement and shared
rhythm.
Purpose: To support group cohesion and energize participants through collective movement
rooted in traditional Ukrainian culture.
Materials:
– speaker or mobile device with audio
– music: upbeat Ukrainian folk tune (instrumental or vocal)
5. Tasting
Duration: 8–10 minutes
Ukrainian culture is deeply rooted in the tradition of hospitality. Offering food is seen as a form
of respect, not just nutrition. Dishes often carry symbolic meanings.
A small tasting will be offered as a way to introduce “the taste of culture”. Each food item is
briefly explained in terms of its meaning.
Materials:
– paper napkins or disposable tableware
– optional: printed label cards with food names
6. Closing
Duration: 3 minutes
Participants gather around the ribbon tree. This is a moment for quiet reflection. Participants
may be invited to silently leave another wish or thought.
A suggested closing phrase:
“Culture is not something kept in a museum. It is a daily act—starting with a word, a gesture, or
something you chose to leave here today. Thank you for sharing this moment together.”