Heartbeats of Ukraine
(Thu 20 Feb: 7pm)
Join the Culture Code Ensemble and the Cross-Party Group on Ukraine for an evening in aid of Hospitallers, a Ukrainian voluntary organisation of paramedics who are currently saving lives; first a screening of compelling documentary on the hidden battles of medics in Ukraine, followed by a storming musical performance bringing twentieth-century Ukrainian culture to Edinburgh in 2025!
Can You Hear Me? The Invisible Battles of Ukrainian Military Medics explores the profound psychological toll faced by Ukrainian military medics during the ongoing conflict. Produced by The Kyiv Independent and featuring journalists Francis Farrell and Olena Zashko, the film follows these medics from the chaos of the front lines to a serene mental health retreat in the Swedish forests. Through candid interviews and intimate footage, the documentary reveals their struggles with the loss of comrades, the harrowing experience of Russian captivity, and the enduring guilt over soldiers they could not save. Highlighting their resilience and unwavering dedication, the film also emphasizes the critical need for mental health support for those serving on the front lines, shedding light on unseen battles.
In the second half of this one-of-a-kind event, experience Culture Code Vol 2, where a story unfolds around the discovery of a chest, preserving the cultural code of its owners. Featuring a chamber ensemble, the music recreates the era’s atmosphere, immersing the audience in the spirit of the time. The programme will include music of Borys Lyatoshynsky, Vsevolod Zaderatsky, Ihor Shamo, Théodore Akimenko and more. This unique project is a fresh, innovative format with combining music, history, and storytelling in a way that celebrates the resilience and richness of Ukrainian culture.
If you can't attend the event but still wish to make a contribution, you can donate to Hospitallers directly via the button link below:
A booking fee of £1.50 is charged per transaction.
