Successful Advocacy Leads to Cancellation of Mariinsky Theater Ballet Performers at YAGP Gala in Solidarity with Ukraine

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

April 19, 2024

THE SCHEDULED PERFORMANCES AT LINCOLN CENTER OF RUSSIAN BALLET STARS FROM MARIINKSY THEATER WERE CANCELLED HOURS BEFORE THE SVITANOK PROTEST TOOK PLACE

Despite several false stories currently in circulation, the truth is that the performances of Russian ballet stars from the Mariinsky Theater who were scheduled to perform at the Youth America Grand Prix Gala (YAGP) at Lincoln Center were officially cancelled several hours before the Svitanok protest took place. 

The cancellation was the direct result of the fierce, rapid-response endeavors of a small group of passionate Ukraine supporters based in New York, which included Polina Ivko, Esq. (a prominent arts and entertainment lawyer on behalf of a group of concerned dance professionals), Heart & Valor leadership, Bird of Light Ukraine leadership, a group of 26 New York State assemblymen, both democrats and republicans, led by esteemed Michael Novakhov of District 45 who jointly represent millions of New Yorkers, as well as select Ukrainian diplomats. The joint, cooperative efforts paid off, and YAGP and Lincoln Center agreed to cancel the scheduled performances by the Mariinsky Theater dancers.

Svitanok was promptly informed about the successful discussions to exclude the Russian performers from the YAGP Gala, a result of ongoing negotiations involving Ms. Ivko and esteemed political figures on the one hand and the executives of Lincoln Center and YAGP on the other hand. Despite being apprised of this significant outcome, which effectively addressed the community's concerns, Svitanok proceeded with their planned protest.

Remarkably, the cancellation of the Mariinsky Theater dancers was achieved in less than 48 hours of the scheduled Gala without the need of any street protests, based solely on the efforts of the above noted Ukrainian supporters and diplomatic cooperation from YAGP and Lincoln Center – a true testament to the unwavering support of the Americans and New Yorkers for the people of Ukraine.

For additional information contact Polina Ivko at polina@adwarivko.com