A Return That Felt Like Home

On 28 September 2025, Ukrainian International Ballet performed at Theater Castellum in Alphen aan den Rijn, taking part in a very special occasion — the 20th anniversary of the theatre. For our company, it was a moment of great responsibility and a true honour to be invited to contribute to this milestone celebration.

The evening featured a mixed programme, unusual for us in its format, yet carefully shaped for this important context. The performance included Past | Present | Future project, as well as the first part of the INdependent24 project — Project Emotions, in which Ukrainian war veteran Andrii Syromakha also took part. Bringing these works together in one evening felt both meaningful and deeply appropriate for the occasion.

Theater Castellum holds a very special place in our history. Long before Ukrainian International Ballet was formed, during the time of United Ukrainian Ballet, this theatre opened its doors to us, welcoming our performances and supporting our artists with exceptional warmth. We have always been received here not simply as guests, but as family. The team’s care, generosity, and human presence have left a lasting mark on our journey.

For this reason, returning to Castellum for its 20th anniversary felt like coming home in the truest and warmest sense of the word.

The performance was sold out, with a full auditorium and an audience that responded with great warmth and attention. After the show, we were delighted to spend time with spectators in the foyer, sharing reflections and conversations that made the evening even more meaningful.

Our deepest thanks go to the entire Castellum team — both technical and administrative — for their outstanding professionalism, combined with a remarkable sense of humanity and care. We would especially like to thank Marcel t’Sas, Director of Theater Castellum, for his leadership, trust, and continued support.

The evening was marked by an atmosphere of genuine warmth, mutual respect, and the highest professional standards. It reminded us why places like Castellum matter so deeply — not only as theatres, but as homes for artists and shared experiences.

We leave Alphen aan den Rijn with gratitude, joy, and the strong feeling that some stages stay with you forever.