Norwich Theatre to host National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine in 2023

Norwich Theatre is to host the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine in 2023.

The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine (NSOU) will perform at Norwich Theatre Royal on 5 November next year.

NSOU is recognised as one of the finest symphony orchestras in Eastern Europe and will return to tour the UK for the first time in more than 20 years next autumn.

The rich programme will feature specially selected pieces by Ukrainian composer, Boris Lyatoshynsky (1895–1968), whose works the NSOU have premiered in the past. It will also include Sibelius’ Finlandia, and Strauss’ Don Juan.

Alexander Hornostai, NSOU managing director and producer, said: “The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine has been an important part of the country’s culture for over 100 years, and we have been performing and rehearsing in Kiev since we were first established in 1918. Whilst this war has had a dramatic impact on Ukrainian lives, we took the decision early on that we had an important role to play in continuing to perform, in order to protect and showcase Ukrainian musical culture and show that there is more to our country than just the conflict.

“We are deeply grateful to the UK venues and tour promoters who are working with us to ensure this ambitious tour happens. We can’t wait to return to the UK after more than two decades and have the opportunity to perform to UK audiences all over the country.”

Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director at Norwich Theatre, added: “As a Theatre of Sanctuary, we are honoured to be a part of this tour and support a bold and brave act of cultural expression and defiance against many odds. I have had the privilege to meet many Ukrainian guests who have come to Norfolk and both our city and county have opened their arms wide to those seeking refuge. We hope that welcoming the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine to Norwich next autumn will not only celebrate the rich musical culture of Ukraine but our own culture of giving sanctuary here in the East of England as well.”

The tour is also fundraising via a justgiving page to support the NSOU and the continuation of Ukraine’s rich musical culture during the current conflict. Earlier this year Norwich Theatre donated more than £38,000 from bucket collections and other fundraising efforts to the Disasters Emergency Committee Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

For more information and tickets, visit norwichtheatre.org.