Ukrainian ballet company tours America with purpose amid war back home

Kiev ballet dancers are touring America to showcase their talent and keep their art form alive amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ballerina Diana Stetsenko shares her personal journey from fleeing Ukraine to joining the Grand Kiev Ballet. The company raises funds for the Kiev State Choreographic College, affected by the war. Male dancers are sourced from other countries due to conscription laws. Zach Tidswell, a UK dancer, supports Ukrainian refugees, highlighting cultural exchange. The ballet serves as a cultural frontline, symbolizing resilience and hope for peace.

What is the primary purpose of the Grand Kiev Ballet's tour in America?

• To perform exclusively for Ukrainian audiences

• To raise funds and awareness for Ukraine

• To recruit new dancers

• To compete in international ballet competitions

How did Diana Stetsenko respond to the outbreak of war in Ukraine?

• She joined the Ukrainian army

• She moved to America immediately

• She fled to Slovakia and joined a ballet company

• She stopped dancing altogether

What challenge does the Grand Kiev Ballet face due to the war in Ukraine?

• Shortage of ballet instructors

• Lack of funding for performances

• Difficulty in finding male dancers

• Inability to perform in Europe

What action did Zach Tidswell take to support Ukrainian refugees?

• He opened his home to Ukrainian refugees

• He started a ballet school in Ukraine

• He donated money to a Ukrainian charity

• He organized a fundraising concert

How do the dancers view their performances in relation to Ukraine's situation?

• As a way to escape reality

• As a cultural frontline and act of resilience

• As a purely artistic endeavor

• As a means to gain international fame