Past | Present | Future

A transformative ballet exploring time,
culture, and human connection

PREMIERE 8 June, the Hague, Korzo Theater

Past Present Future poster small

Act 1 “The Past”: Time: 20 min, Choreographer: V. Detiuchenko, Performers: D. Borodai & D. Tkachenko, Music: John Hope.

Act 2 “The Present”: Time: 12 min, Choreographer: Marne van Opstal, Performers: Toon Lobach & Ève-Marie Dalcourt (cast A), or Vladyslava Kovalenko with Vladyslav Detiuchenko (cast B), Music: Nine Inch Nails, “Ghosts V: Together”.

Act 3 “The Future”: Time: 20 min, Choreographer: D. Borodai, Music: Danylo Drachov, Performers: K. Novikova, V. Kovalenko, and I. Khutorianska.

No strobe light, 8+

The project is made thankfully and in cooperation with The United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation.

Program

“Past | Present | Future” is a transdisciplinary ballet performance presented by the Ukrainian International Ballet in collaboration with the United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation. This triple bill production explores the dimensions of time—past, present, and future—through the lens of dance, art, and human experience, reflecting the echoes of change in the world we share.

The performance begins with “Past”, choreographed by Vladyslav Detiuchenko, which delves into the creative philosophies of two iconic artists: the Dutch painter Piet Mondrian and the Ukrainian artist Alexandra Exter. Through the language of movement, the piece
contrasts Mondrian’s geometric rationalism with Exter’s kinetic expressionism, creating a dynamic interplay of order and chaos. The dancers embody these opposing worldviews, forging a unique synthesis that breathes life into the static forms of art.

What is the Present, and what does it feel like?
Each person holds the answer for their own life, shaped by their unique experiences, emotions, and perceptions. But how do others perceive the Present, and how does it connect us all? It’s an invitation to step into the world of the Present as envisioned by Marne van Opstal—an exploration of reality brought to life through a profound interplay with the consciousness of two gifted dancers. Their movements, emotions, and interactions create a vivid tapestry of the here and now, inviting the audience to reflect on their own sense of presence. Savor the beauty of this fleeting moment, the freedom of thought, and the connection between body, mind, and soul. This is the Present—raw, unfiltered, and alive—waiting to be experienced together.

The final piece, “Future” by Ukrainian choreographer Dmytro Borodai explores the cyclical nature of human relationships, societal changes, and personal transformations. At its core are women who live in harmony and share a common goal. However, this harmony disrupts. Dark forces divide the women physically and influence their consciousness. They forget their former sisterhood. Conflicts arise, along with a struggle for personal space, ultimately leading to the destruction of the symbols of their unity.

Yet, even in destruction, something new emerges—whether it is remembrance, renewal, or an unspoken understanding that the cycle will begin again.

“Past | Present | Future” a profound exploration of philosophical and emotional questions that resonate across cultures and time. Through the art of choreography, it unites Ukrainian and Dutch influences, offering an introspective journey into the shared human experience. This performance also serves as a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian culture, brought to life with the support of the United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation, which continues to preserve and promote Ukrainian artistry worldwide.

A Living Dance Museum

It is a groundbreaking blend of history, art, and storytelling. Each act serves as an immersive exploration of time, bridging the artistic philosophies of the past, capturing the essence of the present, and imagining a future shaped by resilience and creativity.

Cultural Bridging & Empowerment

PPF fosters East-West cultural exchange and contributes to the revival of Ukraine’s post-war creative industries. It uses the universal language of ballet to engage audiences globally.

A Platform for Young Talent

The performance showcases the artistic innovation of promising local dancers and choreographers, encouraging the development of the next generation of performers.

Incorporation of Visual Art

Exhibitions of paintings by Ukrainian and Dutch artists will be displayed in the theater foyer, providing a multisensory cultural experience.

About UIB Foundation in cooperation with UUB Foundation

UIB is a foundation created on the basis of the United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation (UUBF), which has earned a positive reputation within the Netherlands and during tours to California, Washington DC, London, Liverpool (performed at the opening of Eurovision 2023), Copenhagen, Taiwan, and many other places.

The foundation has worked with choreographers Jiři Kylián, Sol Leon & Paul Lightfoot, Alexei Ratmansky, Sasha Riva, and Simone Repele, under the guidance of the Dutch ballerina Igone de Jongh, Rinus Sprong, Thom Stuart, Matthiijs Bongertman, and the entire board of the UUBF.

Even after the operational closure of the UUBF in March 2024, the foundation continues its noble journey of preserving Ukrainian culture and helping Ukrainian refugee dancers. Thanks to the financial and informational support of UUBF, the “Past | Present | Future” project was brought to life.

Special Thanks To

  • Rinus Sprong
  • Thom Stuart
  • Bart Meuter
  • Bessel Kok
  • Anna Seidl
  • Monique de Velders
  • Annemaayke van der Worp
  • Maxim Hodak
  • Pauline van Huijstee
  • Elena van de Wall-Kholyapina
  • Rob Sjouke
  • Joel Sjouke
  • Ilona Timmer
  • Catharina Jaggi
  • Minny Dekker
  • Britt Arp
  • Yuliia Malinovska

Our Partners

United Ukrainian Ballet Foundation
De Don’t Dance Dutch Division
7Sprong
The Embassy of Ukraine in the Netherlands
VATAHA
Radio Ukraine the Netherlands
Vesela Pani