Darrell Marko is thrilled to be teaching at DanceCo.  Darrell has been teaching Ukrainian dance over the past three decades!  His passion for dance has been shared with many dance clubs and studios throughout Alberta.  He has aujudicated  at  dance competitions and has instructed at workshops with several organizations. Darrell continues to be a strong supporter of the Arts. 

As a youngster, Darrell started with Ukrainian dance under the direction of Chester Kuc. He has danced professionally with Cheremosh Ukrainian Dance Ensemble for 10 years. Advanced studies of Ukrainian dancing was supplemented by a workshop in Ukraine. In addtion, he was privileged to be a student of character and ballet master, Maria Bokor. Darrell has been involved in various character, ballet and drama productions, as an instructor and performer.

Darrell enriched his professional dance experience and education when he joined Vinok Worldance.  Vinok is Canada’s foremost international world dance and music company that incorporates live music, authentic costumes and improvisation in their productions.  Darrell toured internationally with the group for 5 years. 

Darrell is a school teacher and has been teaching elementary and junior high with Edmonton Catholic Schools for the past 14 years.  He has enjoyed teaching a variety of subjects, however his specialty  is in physical education, drama, dance and counselling.  Darrell was the Ukrainian Dance Academy Instructor at St. Martin and St. Matthew’s schools for 2010 – 2011 and also taught folk dance and movement at Mother Teresa elementary school.  Presently, Darrell is the Dance Academy Instructor at St. Nicholas Junior High. 

His educational background includes a Social Services Diploma from Grant MacEwan College, an Education Degree with the University of Alberta and a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Portland. 

Darrell looks forward to a fantastic year!