Kalyna is a beautiful plant with red berries which symbolizes the country of Ukraine, thus its name encompasses the spirit and beauty of Kalyna's ensemble's members. Most of Kalyna's members were born in Ukraine and all speak the language fluently; therefore the desire to immerse themselves in Ukrainian culture is prominent within all the dancers in their enthusiastic performances.

The dance group originated in Sacramento with a small group of young children that practiced dancing after church sermons. Since then the ensemble has grown to include a large group of young adults, taught by professional dancers and choreographers of Moldova, George and Irina Arabadgi. Having practiced and performed together for over a decade, the performers are a tightly knit group whose ages range from 15-17.

The ensemble members have performed at international and Ukrainian festivals all along the West Coast of the United States, always creating a majestic and captivating performance which has the power to thrill audiences of all ages.

Throughout the years, many dancers have come and gone within our studio, but all had the same goal in mind, to accumulate a deeper knowledge of the diverse Ukrainian culture and develop a unique interpretation of Ukrainian folk-dancing.