The Ukrainian director, the opera and the Russian singers

Opera finds itself caught in conflict

Drama has appeared in the Jerusalem Lyric Opera Studio & Festival as Ukrainian theatre director Eugene Lavrenchuk withdrew from the production of George Handel's opera "Rinaldo" as part of their summer festival. Lavrenchuk's departure was driven by the inclusion of Russian singers in the cast, a decision he found unacceptable amidst the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Lavrenchuk had contractually requested that no Russians be involved, citing the symbolic implications of such participation. Despite assurances from the organisers, he discovered two Russian singers listed on promotional material, prompting his resignation.

The festival organisers defended their choices, emphasising their commitment to artistic excellence over nationality. They highlighted their previous support for Ukraine through solidarity concerts but maintained that art should transcend political boundaries.

The subject is sensitive on both sides. Israel is notably the subject of several cultural boycotts. Its presence in the upcoming Eurovision is also hotly contested. But for Lavrenchuk, too much is at stake.

"Today, we cannot stand on the same stage with Russians, regardless of the context, because other people will use it to legitimize the friendship of (Ukrainian and Russian) peoples,” he said in a Facebook post. “[People] will say that politicians are fighting somewhere else, but the ordinary people are Slavic brothers. This cannot be allowed."

Lavrenchuk's stance resonated with Ukrainian singer Vladyslav Shkarupilo, who also withdrew in solidarity. The organisers have since replaced Lavrenchuk with Russian director Daniil Dmitriev.

Despite the controversy, the opera will proceed as planned in July. Lavenchuk, meanwhile, is currently working on two projects in Ukraine and Poland.

(ML. Source: Kyiv Independent. Photo: Eugene Lavrenchuk)