Open arms for Ukraine performers from Kiev National Opera after Richmond performance
By Rory Poulter 18th Mar 2022
Ukrainian performers with the Kiev National Opera, who sang in Richmond this week, have been offered help and support by local businesses.
The suffering of Ukrainian civilians in the face of the Russian invasion has been heart-breaking.
Hospitals and residential premises shelled, innocent people killed and millions forced to become refugees to escape the onslaught.
It has been a desperate time for the 72 members of the Kiev National Opera who performed in Madama Butterfly at Richmond Theatre.
Some of the cast have learned of homes destroyed and family members forced to flee. Others are anxiously awaiting news from loved ones. Despite this, the musicians have remained true professionals and played on.
Among the musicians and performers attending were conductor Vasyl Vasylenko, Tenor, Vitalil Liskovetskyi, who is also a military pilot, and Mezzo-Soprano, Katerina Timbaliuk.
The plight of the performers was brought to the attention of the Richmond business owners by Ukrainian Royal College of Music violin student, Yuliya Ostapchuk.
As a gesture of solidarity with the Ukrainian people, a meal for the musicians was organised by Gabriel Irwin, owner of Foot Solutions and Vice Chair of Be Richmond, at the Franco Manca restaurant.
The meal was funded by Ann Chapman-Daniel, founder of Minesoft Ltd and the chair of Be Richmond. Also in attendance were the mayor, Cll Geoff Acton, and Cllr Richard Baker.
The mayor said: "I was so pleased to meet members of the travelling Ukrainian crew who performed at Richmond Theatre. They were so gratified by the support given by the borough residents.
"My thoughts, and those of all of us, must continue to be with people suffering under Putin's war."
Be Richmond said: "The occasion was appreciated by the musicians as a welcome distraction from family worries and distressing news.
"They were greatly heartened by the warmth and support from the people of Richmond."
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