The Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine is performing a very special performance at Norwich Theatre Royal on 6 October. The Royal is the very first stop on its six-date tour across the UK.
Established in 1902, the Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra makes their first visit to Norfolk. The orchestra has been flying the flag for Ukrainian music-making with international tours and collaborative projects.
Led by the Ukrainian conductor, Theodore Kuchar, the rich programme starts with Rossini’s rumbustious Thieving Magpie Overture followed by a rare performance of Sibelius’ atmospheric and elegiac 4th Symphony. The second is a wonderful opportunity to hear Brahms’ masterpiece; his Double Concerto and the finale of the concert will be a selection of Dvořák’s thrilling Slavonic Dances.
Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director at Norwich Theatre said: “We are deeply honoured to be first venue of this tour which is a symbol of musical solidarity with our friends in Ukraine.
“We are now living in a more disparate world, and the role of the arts has never been more vital. It offers a powerful means of expression, healing and resilience as well as fostering community and promoting cultural understanding. And we know there is always a special atmosphere in Norwich Theatre Royal when a Ukrainian orchestra plays.”
The evening is not only a celebration of the rich musical heritage of Ukraine but also Norfolk’s own culture of giving sanctuary. Recently a group of Ukrainian civic and business leaders visited Norfolk to explore opportunities for trade, education and cultural exchanges following the signing in May of a formal cooperation agreement between Norfolk County Council and the Ukrainian region of Lviv. This Memorandum of Understanding is the first of its kind in the UK.
Stephen added: “Norfolk has well and truly thrown its arms around those fleeing Ukraine, and I am proud that we, as a Theatre of Sanctuary, have been able to play a small part by offering our creative spaces as a place for communities to gather and connect.”
Norwich Theatre and Norfolk County Council will be hosting an event for local dignitaries, Ukrainian guests and delegation of civic leaders from the Lviv region in Ukraine before the concert to promote the cultural exchange between Norfolk and Ukraine.
Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine will be performing on 6 October at Norwich Theatre Royal. For more information or to book tickets, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
