The name MeieOma was inspired by this year’s official festival theme, Iseoma (Kinship), and it carried a powerful message honouring people and their humanity in all its diversity. It celebrates both the language that unites us and the dialects that distinguish us. As such, MeieOma came to be—and from the very beginning, it was built with love, dedication, and a deep desire to celebrate our culture together—across oceans and generations.
Months of planning and preparation blossomed into reality on the sunny afternoon of May 31st, as MeieOma came to life. We decided to split the performances between the sanctuary and the adjacent hall. The transition between these two spaces was no small feat, but with teamwork (and a little Estonian determination), we made it work seamlessly. We are thankful to the Estonian Church Foundation for their generous support and flexibility with regard to the use of the space.
Läänetuul, our choir, performed in the sanctuary under the thoughtful direction of our beloved choir master, Thomas Kirves. With patience and heart, Thomas guided us through both familiar and new pieces—from timeless classics like Koit and Ta lendab mesipuu poole to newer songs like Allikas and Elukoor. Each note carried emotion, pride, and unity. Singing to a warm and supportive audience, we truly felt like we were part of something much bigger.
Following this, Vancouveri Kilplased—our dance group—took to the hall stage (or rather, dancefloor, surrounded by the audience), showcasing months and months of dedication spearheaded by Brigid Zurock, our dance director and co-director Mike Toompuu. Brigid has worked tirelessly throughout the entire year and beyond. Her unwavering dedication—showing up every week, attending every seminar even in the wee hours of the morning, and continuously supporting our dancers—has been the foundation of our success. Mike’s partnership and steady support have been deeply appreciated.
In addition, we were incredibly fortunate to receive guidance from Silvia Soide, who visited us from Estonia to help ensure we were up to speed with the choreography. Her expertise and encouragement brought so much confidence and clarity to our group. We’re very grateful for her time and support.
Our journey also led us south to Portland, where Brigid and her partner Isaac Zurock attended a workshop led by Clelia Madi, bringing valuable insights back to Vancouver. Their enthusiasm helped keep our shared energy high. Aitäh teile!
The laughter, joy, and movement reminded us just how much fun our heritage can be when it’s shared.
Of course, no Estonian dance performance would be complete without Tuljak—and true to tradition, we invited audience members to join us on the dance floor. The laughter, joy, and movement reminded us just how much fun our heritage can be when it’s shared.
As MeieOma was a fundraiser, we welcomed donations at the door and offered a delicious spread of open-faced sandwiches, lovingly prepared by our dancers and singers, along with cookies, coffee, and tea. It was a true team effort and the result was a heartwarming, nourishing experience for all involved.
And we couldn’t have done it without the generous support of the Estonian Foundation of Canada (EFC). Their belief in our project helped bring it to life. EFC plays a vital role in sustaining Estonian culture and community across the country—not just here in Vancouver, but from coast to coast. We encourage everyone who believes in the importance of our heritage to consider donating to EFC so these kinds of events can continue to thrive for future generations.
Now, with hearts full and bags packed, we’re ready. Both Kilplased and Läänetuul have been accepted to perform in Tallinn alongside incredible choirs and dance troupes from Estonia and around the world. For some of us, it will be our very first time at Laulupidu ja Tantsupidu. For others, it’s a return to something sacred and familiar.
Dedicated dancers and singers—thank you!
And to everyone who supported us—whether through donations, baking, organizing, or simply attending—thank you. You’ve made this journey possible.
See you at the festival in Tallinn!
Aitäh. Meie oma rahvas. Meie oma pidu.
