Volya, meaning ‘freedom’ encompasses the unified spirit of its current ensemble members. With many of Volya’s original members having studied in Ukraine, a desire existed to develop a similar academic style of dance within Canada. A strict adherence to technical training and professionalism is a philosophical belief still maintained today under the Artistic Direction of Zhenia Bahri, a former professional dancer and director from Ukraine. Zhenia has been the Artistic Director since 2000 and has brought unsurpassed passion, knowledge, and expertise to the Ensemble in his lifelong dedication to the art of Ukrainian dance.

Volya Ukrainian Dance Ensemble is an Edmonton based dance company dedicated to contributing to the social and cultural growth of Ukrainian Heritage in Edmonton. For over 30 years, Volya has enthralled local audiences and performs on a national and international platform. Volya combines the highest standards of technical excellence with intricate footwork and the authentic artistry that are the hallmarks of Ukrainian Dance.

Since its’ inception in 1989, Volya has flourished into a vibrant ensemble consisting of dedicated members who have captivated and delighted audiences with their dynamic performances around the world. Volya has entertained audiences at festivals in Germany, Holland, Brazil, Italy, USA (California, New York), Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Croatia, Turkey, France, England, the Azores Islands, Greece, Colombia and across Canada.

Volya! actively participates in the community through donated performances at various events, including the For Kids by Kids benefit for the Stollery Children’s Hospital and workshops with local schools. Additionally, Volya has headlined several festivals across Canada over the years. These include: The Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival, Vegreville Pysanka Festival and Edmonton’s own Ukrainian Festival, UFest.

Over the years many dancers have entered Volya's studios with the same goal in mind, to dance for the love of dance and to establish an identity for the ensemble that is uniquely Volya!