In a time of conflict and uncertainty, Ukraine’s largest music festival, Atlas United, is making a remarkable return this weekend. Despite the ongoing threat of Russian missile attacks, the festival is set to welcome around 25,000 attendees in a new, carefully designed venue. Vlad Yaremchuk, the program director of Atlas United, has faced significant challenges in organizing this year’s event but remains optimistic about its success. This article explores how the festival is adapting to wartime conditions and the cultural significance of holding such an event under these circumstances.
Adapting to Wartime Conditions
The Atlas United festival, a prominent event in Kyiv’s cultural calendar since its inception in 2015, has been significantly affected by the ongoing conflict with Russia. Originally scheduled for earlier in the year, the festival was postponed after a series of missile attacks, including one on a children’s hospital. Despite these challenges, the festival is poised to go ahead in a shopping mall parking lot, a move designed to safeguard attendees in case of an airstrike.
Vlad Yaremchuk’s efforts to ensure the festival’s continuity are commendable. “To finally see people coming into the festival for the first time will be exciting,” Yaremchuk told BBC Newsbeat. His optimism shines through despite the stress and uncertainty surrounding the event. The decision to relocate the festival to a shopping center was driven by the need to provide a secure environment for the large crowd expected.
New Venue and Safety Measures
The new venue for Atlas United features two stages erected in the parking lot of a Kyiv shopping mall. This location offers a significant advantage: it can accommodate over 100,000 people, providing ample space for quick evacuation if necessary. Yaremchuk highlights the importance of this arrangement, stating, “There will be more than enough space to get everyone evacuated quickly — and we’re talking minutes.”
The challenge of convincing attendees to seek shelter during air raids is acknowledged. To address this, Yaremchuk’s team has devised a plan to relocate the festival underground if an emergency arises. This contingency includes an entire stage and a bar, ensuring that the music can continue even in the event of an air raid.
Challenges with International Acts
One of the notable differences this year is the absence of international headliners. Many foreign artists declined to perform due to safety concerns. Yaremchuk expresses his frustration but also understands the artists’ decisions. He notes, “Seeing musicians playing in Russia right now really ticks me off,” but acknowledges the legitimacy of their concerns about personal safety.
Despite the lack of international stars, the festival will feature a lineup of local talent. This shift provides an opportunity for Ukrainian artists to shine on a larger stage. Vitalii and Marina from the indie band Disappeared Completely will be among the performers, reflecting the festival’s focus on homegrown acts.
Cultural Impact and Community Spirit
The Atlas United festival is not just a music event but a symbol of resilience and unity. For many Ukrainians, it represents a chance to experience joy and normalcy amidst the chaos of war. Vitalii and Marina emphasize the importance of such moments, with Marina stating, “It’s always nice to gather together with people and to celebrate life itself.”
The festival also plays a role in supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. It aims to raise at least €2 million (£1.7 million), with most of the funds allocated for drones to assist soldiers on the front line. This integration of cultural and practical support highlights the festival’s broader impact on the war effort.
International Support and Performances
Artists who have gained international recognition while living abroad are also contributing to the festival’s success. Solo artist Shmiska, who now resides in Paris, is returning to Kyiv to perform. She believes that artists have a role in rekindling hope and dreams in difficult times. “I think, as artists, it’s our job to give people this chance to feel again, to dream again,” Shmiska says.
Her performance in Kyiv will be a significant event, featuring elaborate light shows and costume changes to make a memorable impact. Shmiska’s return underscores the ongoing connection between Ukrainian artists and their homeland, even amidst their international careers.
Conclusion
The return of Atlas United amid the ongoing conflict is a testament to the resilience and creativity of Ukraine’s cultural community. By adapting to wartime conditions and continuing to host a large-scale festival, Ukraine demonstrates its ability to maintain cultural vibrancy and unity despite the challenges. The festival’s focus on safety, local talent, and support for the military highlights its role as a symbol of hope and endurance in a time of crisis.
FAQ
1. Why was Atlas United postponed and relocated?
Atlas United was postponed due to a series of deadly missile attacks, including one on a children’s hospital. The festival was relocated to a shopping mall parking lot to provide a secure environment and facilitate quick evacuation if necessary.
2. What are the new safety measures for the festival?
The new venue can accommodate over 100,000 people and includes plans for underground shelters to continue the festival in case of an air raid. The venue is designed to allow for rapid evacuation and maintain safety for attendees.
3. Why are there no international headliners this year?
Many international artists declined to perform due to safety concerns related to the ongoing conflict. While this is disappointing, the festival has shifted its focus to featuring local talent.
4. How is the festival supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts?
Atlas United aims to raise at least €2 million (£1.7 million), with most of the funds allocated for drones to support Ukrainian soldiers on the front line.
5. How are Ukrainian artists involved in the festival?
Ukrainian artists, including those who have gained international recognition, are performing at the festival. Their participation reflects a commitment to maintaining cultural connections and providing hope to their compatriots.
