Ukrainian National ballet to perform in York
It is the first time since the Kyiv City Ballet have taken to the stage since the start of the war
York Theatre Royal will be hosting a special gala performance tonight from Ukraine’s national ballet company, Kyiv City Ballet. It is the company’s first UK performance since the war started.
Tom Bird, Chief Executive of York Theatre Royal, invited the prestigious Ballet to perform at the theatre after learning that the company were stranded in France. The Kyiv City Ballet had been on tour as the war broke out in Ukraine and have stayed there ever since, with it being too unsafe for them to return home to Ukraine.
He says “It is a huge honour to be hosting Kyiv City Ballet at York Theatre Royal. This is the company's first UK appearance since their city came under attack, and we are proud that York is able to stand in solidarity with Kyiv by supporting these extraordinary dancers for this one-off visit."
The Ballet have been offered free transport, accommodation and hospitality by local businesses.
The company also received a Civic welcome at Mansion House in York when they arrived on Thursday.
100% of the ticket sales from the performance will go to UNICEF to support people in Ukraine, as nominated by the ballet company.