Community gathers for Ukrainian culture in the heart of Lewes
Residents in Lewes were invited to explore Ukrainian traditions at the Town Hall on Saturday 4 July, where a display of Petrykivka folk painting and a programme of choral music brought together local people and Ukrainian refugees now living in the area. The event formed part of ongoing efforts to share Ukrainian culture with the town, while raising support for patients undergoing oncology treatment in Ukraine.
The visual arts element showcased work produced through Ukrainian Hearts’ Petrykivka course, led in recent months for participants in the community. Attendees were then treated to performances from Nebo I Zamlia (translated as Heaven and Earth), a Ukrainian choir that drew warm praise for its Eastern European harmonies. A number of those singing are not conservatoire-trained, yet visitors remarked on the quality and expression throughout the programme.
Choirs and soloists draw praise
Alongside the main choir, a children’s choir performed to an appreciative audience, with reactions noting the charm and confidence of the young singers. The musical line-up also included soloist Valentyna Roxum, whose original songs held the room’s attention. During the afternoon, a local professional singer offered congratulations to the choir leader, Liudmilya Kulakova, recognising the standard reached by the ensemble.
“Charming,” was how several visitors described the children’s choir, while others said they were “amazed” that many adult singers were not formally trained.
The occasion was organised with the help of Helen Chiasson and Pat O’Toole, founders of Lewes for Ukraine. Attendees thanked the organisers for giving Ukrainian residents a platform to present their heritage and for maintaining public awareness of the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Refreshments were sold on the day to support oncology patients in Ukraine, and organisers encouraged continued contributions after the event.
How to support
Donations can be made via ukranianhearts.org.uk. This follows the Town Hall event and is intended to extend the reach of the initiative beyond those who could attend in person.
- Exhibition: Petrykivka Ukrainian folk painting by local participants of Ukrainian Hearts’ course.
- Music: Performances by Nebo I Zamlia choir, a children’s choir, and soloist Valentyna Roxum.
- Fundraising: Proceeds from refreshments directed to oncology patients in Ukraine; donations invited online.
Event details at a glance
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Lewes Town Hall |
| Date | Saturday, 4 July |
| Features | Petrykivka art exhibition; Nebo I Zamlia choir; children’s choir; soloist Valentyna Roxum |
| Choir leadership | Liudmilya Kulakova |
| Beneficiary | Oncology patients in Ukraine |
| Donate | ukranianhearts.org.uk |
For Lewes residents, the event provided a direct way to engage with neighbours who have arrived from Ukraine, while foregrounding the cultural traditions they wish to keep alive in their new community. It also offered a practical route to contribute to healthcare needs overseas, underlining how local cultural activity can serve a wider humanitarian purpose.
