About this Event
This event is a special performance dedicated to the art of Taras Shevchenko. Spivanka singers will share their favourite folk songs based on the poems of Taras Shevchenko and Mariia Petrovska will join in with a traditional Ukrainian instrument bandura.
We will be performing and singing in an open sircle, so expect a warm and easy going atmosphere (and maybe some audience participation if you wish).
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Who was Taras Shevchenko?
Taras Shevchenko is a key figure of Ukrainian culture. He was a poet, writer, artist, public and political figure, folklorist and ethnographer. He was born in the village of Morintsy (modern Cherkasy) on March 9, 1814 into a family of serfs. He got his freedom and first recognition thanks to his talent as an artist. He is often called simply Kobzar.
A kobzar is a traditional Ukrainian wandering bard (often blind) who sang epic poems (dumy) while playing a kobza or bandura lute. It was because of Kobzars that songs and news from different parts of Ukraine were shared among people.
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More about Spivanka:
Spivanka is a community of people who like Ukrainian folk. We gather to sing and to talk about Ukrainian culture and always welcome newcomers. Our regular sessions are held on Sundays in Old Diorama and this time we have put together a programme of our favourite Shevchenko songs to share with you. If you are curious about Ukrainian folk - this event is perfect to get a little glimpse of our community.
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Invited guest: Mariia Petrovska
We are very excited to be joined by Mariia Petrovska, a charismatic bandura player and singer to celebrate Taras Shevchenko's birthday and honour his atristic heritage by singing his songs.
Combining masterful technique with a pure, emotive voice, Mariia brings fresh energy to traditional Ukrainian music while also performing her own contemporary songs. A multi-award-winning musician in Ukraine, Mariia moved to the UK following the Russian invasion and now studies songwriting and performance at the British and Irish Modern Music University in Manchester. She uses her music as a voice for Ukraine, leading the volunteer organisation People’s Territory of Happiness and performing as part of the Cultural Forces. In 2023, she performed near the frontline in Ukraine and on the Eurovision Village stage in Liverpool. In 2024, she performed to great acclaim at London’s Finborough Theatre, and in March 2025 gave her first solo concert in London at The Harrison. Her performances are emotionally powerful and unforgettable.
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We kept this event free to make it accessible for all attendees. Any donations are greatly appreciated and will go towards future Spivanka sessions.
This session is possible with the support of Old Diorama Arts Centre.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Old Diorama Arts Centre, 201 Drummond Street, London, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
