Defiance on Stage: Kharkiv Ballet Performs Amidst War

The Kharkiv National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in Ukraine has turn into a symbol of resilience, continuing to perform despite the ongoing Russian invasion. For the dancers of Kharkiv, the stage represents not just an artistic outlet, but a vital connection to their community and a defiant act of cultural preservation.

A Return to the Stage After Disruption

The last performance for a full house in the theatre’s main venue was on February 23, 2022, just hours before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Following the invasion, Russian forces heavily shelled Kharkiv, damaging the theatre building with shattered glass covering over 2,000 square meters [1].

Underground Rehearsals and Performances

To ensure the safety of the performers and continue their art, the theatre’s management moved rehearsals and performances underground within the venue [1]. In the early months of the war, the company also took their performances directly to the people, staging ballet in Kharkiv’s metro stations as a way to offer a moment of respite and “cheer people up” [1].

A Smaller Company, Unwavering Spirit

Prior to the invasion, the theatre employed over 90 ballerinas and danseurs. Today, the company consists of approximately 35 regular dancers, supported by a local chamber orchestra [1]. Many former colleagues are now performing with touring ballet groups across Europe.

Rehearsing for ‘Giselle’ and Facing Daily Threats

As of February 25, 2026, the company was rehearsing for a performance of the French ballet ‘Giselle’ – the same ballet they performed on the night before the invasion [1]. Rehearsals capture place six days a week, a demanding schedule for professional athletes. Despite daily Russian attacks and resulting power and heating outages, the dancers continue to practice, finding warmth with electric heaters in the underground rehearsal rooms [1].

The Importance of Art in Times of Conflict

The dancers emphasize the importance of continuing their work, providing audiences with “a chance for a miracle, a fairytale” [1]. Ukrainian soldiers frequently attend performances, finding a temporary escape from the realities of war. As Antonina Radievskaya, a lead soloist, stated, “It’s very essential to maintain performing because people need a chance for a miracle, a fairytale” [1].

A Historic Theatre

The Kharkiv National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, named after Mykola Lysenko, is one of the oldest musical theatres in Ukraine [3]. The postmodern building was constructed in 1991 and is noted for its tufa tile exterior [1]. It has also served as a site for significant national events, including the funeral of Kharkiv mayor Hennadii Kernes in December 2020 [1].