Odessa Classics, a renowned music festival that once graced the Black Sea city of Odessa for seven years, has embarked on a new chapter due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The festival, which had to leave its original base in Odessa, is now embracing a nomadic existence, bringing its rich cultural offerings to various European cities each year.
In a gesture of solidarity and support, the Ghent Festival has dedicated an evening to Odessa Classics as part of their tenth anniversary celebrations. The festival, which will visit cities such as Vilnius, Zürich, Luzern, and Bremen, will also make a stop in Ghent, where it will present a special program curated for this occasion.
Artistic director and pianist Alexey Botvinov has crafted a unique evening for Ghent, showcasing a diverse range of Ukrainian culture. The program features a blend of music, dance, poetry, and video art, providing a glimpse into Ukraine's rich heritage while reflecting on the current challenges and aspirations for the future.
Audiences can expect performances of works by celebrated composers such as Silvestrov, Skoryk, Karamanov, Bach, Rachmaninov, Richter, Einaudi, and Glass, among others. Through these artistic expressions, Odessa Classics aims to celebrate Ukraine’s unparalleled cultural legacy and foster a sense of hope and resilience amidst adversity.
Performers
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New Ideas Chamber Orchestra (NICO)
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Gediminas Gelgotas, artistic direction NICO
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Diana Mala, poetry
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VJ Videomatics, video
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Inna Bilash, dance
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Alexey Botvinov, piano and artistic direction
The concert takes place in VIERNULVIER Theatre Hall. Address: Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 23, 9000 Ghent.
