The vibrant spirit of Ukraine lit up the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) as the event “Vechornytsi – An Evening of Ukrainian Music” celebrated the nation’s timeless melodies and cultural pride. The gathering brought together Ukrainians living in the UAE alongside international guests eager to experience the country’s rich musical and artistic traditions.
The concert’s carefully curated program featured beloved classics such as “Cheremshyna,” “Two Colours,” “I Will Go to Distant Mountains,” “The Red Rue,” and the globally cherished “Carol of the Bells.” Each song carried deep emotional resonance, weaving together nostalgia, beauty, and the enduring strength of Ukrainian identity.
Adding to the evening’s brilliance was a special performance by the Ukrainian Ansamble Chervona Kalyna, led by Kristina Novykova. The ensemble — featuring Natalia Stradomska (playing the traditional bandura), Olha Bondarenko, and Anna Komar — brought an extraordinary authenticity to the stage. Their harmonious vocals, accompanied by the delicate strings of the bandura, transported the audience to the heart of Ukraine’s musical soul. With every note, Chervona Kalyna embodied the essence of Ukrainian folk tradition, blending history and emotion in a performance that was both moving and mesmerizing.
In addition to the ensemble’s stunning presentation, the evening also featured captivating vocal performances by Rina Marchuk, Allexa Bash, Alina Bashkina, Julia Sydorenko, Raisa Knüsel, and Lucy Novikova, whose voices filled the venue with passion and emotion. Many attendees were visibly moved, connecting through memories of home and shared cultural roots.
Beyond the music, the evening offered a taste of authentic Ukrainian hospitality. Guests were treated to traditional Ukrainian cuisine, thoughtfully prepared by the Dubai-based company Eat.varenyk, adding a warm and nostalgic flavor to the celebration.
The event was more than a concert — it was a cultural bridge between Ukraine and the world. “Vechornytsi” served as a reminder of how art can transcend borders, uniting communities and preserving national heritage even far from home. In Dubai’s cosmopolitan setting, the evening stood as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Ukrainian spirit, proving that culture, like music, knows no boundaries.
