Two renowned ballerinas, one Ukrainian and another Russian, sent a strong statement of brotherhood through their passionate performance at San Carlo Theater in Naples on April 4, 2022; all proceeds were donated to the Red Cross to champion peace amidst war-stricken Ukraine. Olga Smirnova and Anastasya Gurskaya graced the stage, giving a spectacular show to benefit the cause, accompanied by photographer Alessandra Tarantino.
Spectacular Performance by International Dancers
Two internationally acclaimed dancers, Olga Smirnova and Anastasya Gurskaya, proudly graced the stage in Naples on Monday, April 4, 2022. Their sold-out benefit performance was held to raise funds for the Red Cross and support the cause of peace. The ballerina from Kyiv’s Opera and the former prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Theatre gave a spectacular performance that was captured by photographer Alessandra Tarantino.
Standing with Ukraine – Ballet for Peace
The San Carlo Theater in Naples proudly presented an inspirational evening of ballet: “Stand with Ukraine – Ballet for Peace”. Two renowned ballerinas, one Ukrainian who had fled war in her homeland and another Russian, who had quit the Bolshoi Ballet over the Russian invasion, rehearsed on stage ahead of a sold-out benefit performance. All proceeds were donated to the Red Cross to champion the cause of peace in Ukraine. Despite opposition from the Ukraine’s consul, the performance was well received, showing that art can bring together people of all nationalities and backgrounds.
The event boasts of two headliners, prima ballerina Olga Smirnova, who recently switched from the Bolshoi to the Dutch National Ballet and Anastasia Gurskaya, a top ballerina in Kyiv’s Opera, who had to flee the conflict in her home country. In an interview before the final rehearsal, Smirnova expressed her pride and positivity; she believes that coming together on stage, even with something as small as dancing, is the best way to show support for Ukraine in this difficult time.
Gurskaya also shared her enthusiasm for the performance, proclaiming that she is “really happy” to be able to help and support her country and showing no signs of doubt in her own capabilities. Alessio Carbone, the theater’s artistic director, praised the two ballerinas’ participation and commended them for their determination and spirit.
“Olga is a very strong image for us, because obviously she was the first dancer who publicly opposed the (Putin) regime. So to have her with us tonight is a testament to her courage and strength.”
Stanislav Olshanskyi, a dancer at the Kyiv Opera House since 2018, proudly declared his connection to the town of Bucha and condemned the atrocities that had occurred there. “It’s my city,” he said confidently. “I know this city, I walked in the streets.” The Associated Press had reported upon the bodies of 410 civilians having been removed from towns recently reclaimed by Ukraine forces, with at least 21 visible around Bucha. Olshanskyi stated that the photos were “horrible”, but added that those affected would never forgive the perpetrators. His declaration serves as a symbol of resilience and strength for the people of Ukraine.
Today, Frances D’Emilio reported from Rome. This compelling story is part of the many AP stories following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, available to read at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine. The Associated Press continues to provide exemplary news coverage and uphold their commitment to excellence in journalism. All rights reserved; permission must be granted to publish, broadcast, rewrite or redistribute any material.
Overall the performance was a moving event. The fact that renowned dancers of two countries joined together to bring attention to the conflict brought a much-needed message of unity and respect during a sensitive time. Both ballerinas donated their time and passion to advocate for peace between the two countries, displaying through art the potential of having different nationalities come together to bring people and communities closer. These proof that actions have power and serve as an excellent example of how dance can deliver a positive message across boundaries.
