Light in darkness

PRESS RELEASE
The Hague, March 1, 2025

Ukrainian International Ballet Supports “Light in the Darkness II” – A Powerful Evening of Art and Solidarity

The Ukrainian International Ballet is proud to announce its participation in Light in the Darkness II, a heartfelt charity event dedicated to supporting Ukraine and those who have suffered due to the ongoing war. Known for championing charity initiatives and creating impactful performances that honor the resilience of the human spirit, we are honored to stand once again on a stage that unites art and solidarity for a vital cause.

Through dance, we continue our mission to support Ukraine’s courageous fight for independence and freedom, using the universal language of art to raise awareness and much-needed funds. This special evening will help provide medical supplies, equipment, and humanitarian aid to those affected by the crisis.

Organized in collaboration with Korzo and led by co-creators Vladyslav Detiuchenko and Veronika Rakitina, the event will bring together Ukrainian and international artists to convey a powerful message of unity, hope, and resilience. As an organization committed to making a difference through dance, Ukrainian International Ballet is humbled to contribute to this incredible effort by showcasing our artistry alongside other talented performers.

We invite you to join us for an evening where art transcends borders, cultivating solidarity and inspiring a brighter future for those impacted by war. Your presence helps to rekindle the light in the darkest of times.

100% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the charity foundation Nederlandse 4 Ukraine.

Reflecting on 2023’s Milestone:
The inaugural “Light in the Darkness” charity event in 2023 was a true testament to what art can achieve. By raising 20,000 euros through ticket sales and the auction of exclusive artwork by Casper Faassen, the funds enabled the delivery of a fully equipped ambulance to Ukraine. This act of empathy and urgency saved lives and showcased the power of collective action. The success of the first event inspires us to aim even higher for 2025.

Performance Highlights of 2025:
As part of the evening’s program, Ukrainian International Ballet will perform in:

• “De/Het/Een”, an extract from the performance “INdependent24” by UIB
  Choreographer: Richel Wieles (Netherlands)

Other performances include:

• Premiere: “For What Is to Come”
  Choreographer: Maciej Kuźminski (Poland)
  Dancers: Daria Koval & Monika Witkowska
• “Au vent sur la pointe des pieds”
  Composer: Maxim Shalygin
  Pianist: Antonii Baryshevskyi
• Premiere by Jacopo Godani (Italy)
  Featuring: Dancer Eve Marie Dalcourt
• Premiere: “Everglow”
  Choreographer and Dancer: Vladyslav Detiuchenko
  Dancers: Vladyslav Detiuchenko & Veronika Rakitina

Special Screening: “Rhythms of Resilience – Dance with Daily Risk”
Adding to this initiative, Korzo Theatre will host screenings of this moving dance documentary from February 27 till March 1, directed by Vladyslav Detiuchenko and produced by Korzo. This movie showcasing the resilience of professional dancers navigating their craft amidst the perils of an active war zone.

Accolades for the film include:

• Winner of Best of the Fest and Best Documentary at Inspired Dance Film Festival (Sydney)
• Finalist at the European Cinematography Awards (Amsterdam)

This evening is supported by: Korzo, Kylian Foundation, United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation, Ukrainian International Ballet, Embassy of Ukraine in the Netherlands, Zhembrovskyy, De Dutch Don’t Dance Division, Piket Kunstprijzen, and the Henny Jurriëns Foundation.

With performances rooted in hope and collaboration, we remain steadfast in supporting a cause that transcends the stage and touches lives.