• The Royal Opera House collaborates with the State Agency of Ukraine on Art and Artistic Education to stream ‘Songs for Ukraine’ Christmas Concert, featuring traditional Ukrainian carols and performances by the Royal Opera Chorus.
• The concert showcases the ROH Songs for Ukraine Chorus, comprising displaced Ukrainian singers, as a symbol of hope and cultural resilience amidst the ongoing conflict.
• The event, celebrating Ukrainian heritage and solidarity, will be streamed globally on Facebook and YouTube, uniting audiences in a message of hope and resilience.

In a stirring act of cultural solidarity, the Royal Opera House (ROH) has joined forces with the State Agency of Ukraine on Art and Artistic Education to stream the ‘Songs for Ukraine’ Christmas Concert, a melodious beacon of hope and unity in these turbulent times. This groundbreaking event, set to be aired on Friday, 22 December 2023, marks a significant moment for both the ROH and the Ukrainian community, as it brings the enchanting sounds of Ukrainian Christmas carols to the global stage.

The concert, which features the ROH Songs for Ukraine Chorus, is a heartwarming blend of traditional Ukrainian carols and a special performance by the Royal Opera Chorus. This unique chorus, comprising 130 Ukrainian individuals, most of whom have been displaced by the ongoing conflict, embodies resilience and hope. Their voices, rising in unison, are a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people and their rich cultural heritage.

The event will be streamed live on the State Agency’s Facebook and YouTube pages, allowing audiences worldwide, especially friends, loved ones, and supporters in Ukraine, to witness this historic performance. The ROH Songs for Ukraine Chorus, established in 2022 as a response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, is a shining example of the Royal Opera House’s commitment to using music as a tool for inspiration, solidarity, and healing.

Jillian Barker, Director of Learning and Participation at the Royal Opera House, eloquently captured the essence of this initiative: “We began the ROH Songs for Ukraine Chorus to unite Ukrainian people in song in the face of such devastation and adversity. We are delighted that their performance will be streamed online to continue to inspire hope and resilience worldwide.”

Olha Rossoshanska, Acting Head of the State Agency of Ukraine on Art and Artistic Education, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the concert’s role in showcasing Ukraine’s rich cultural tapestry during these challenging times.

Eduard Fesko, Chargé d’affaires of Ukraine in the United Kingdom, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting, “As Ukraine endures its hardest period, the world recognizes us not only for our bravery but also for our rich cultural heritage. The Songs for Ukraine Chorus is a symbol of resilience and creativity.”

The ‘ROH Songs for Ukraine Christmas Concert’ is more than just a musical event; it is a symbol of international camaraderie and a message of hope. As the melodies of Ukrainian Christmas echo across the globe, they remind us of the power of art to unite, inspire, and heal, even in the darkest of times.

A recording of the Christmas Concert performed at the Royal Opera House will be premiered on the State Agency’s Facebook and YouTube pages.