Toronto, ON (November 13, 2024) – Ukrainian singing sensation, Gerdan Theatre, has announced the expansion of its cross-Canada tour, Never Mind the Night. The authentic folk group, celebrated for blending traditional Ukrainian music with contemporary flair, is expanding on its largest tour to date, captivating audiences nationwide.
With more than 40 cities on the tour, the expansion includes shows in Alberta as well as British Columbia, Quebec and new dates in Ontario with a special Holiday performance in Oakville this December. For the first-ever, the show will expand into Atlantic Canada, visiting Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
In addition to preserving and celebrating Ukrainian heritage, the tour stands in solidarity with Ukrainian families impacted by the ongoing conflict. Each show concludes with an auction, offering audience members the unique opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind items. All proceeds raised from the auction are donated to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, supporting both the Canada-Ukraine Foundation’s Surgical Aid Program and Aid for Artists Fund.
“We are deeply honoured to bring the Never Mind the Night Tour to audiences across Canada, sharing the rich tapestry of Ukrainian folk music while creating spaces for unity, resilience, and reflection,” said Anastasiya Kostiuk, Artistic Director of Gerdan Theatre. “This tour is more than a performance; it’s a heartfelt tribute to our heritage and a beacon of support for those affected by the war in Ukraine. Through the haunting beauty of our candlelit performances and timeless songs, we hope to foster connection and hope, and to inspire all those who join us on this journey.”
A unique hallmark of the tour, each performance features a breathtaking “candlelit experience” created by the glow of hundreds of candles, crafting an unforgettable atmosphere immersing audiences in Gerdan’s soulful soundscapes. The Never Mind the Night tour promises a one-of-a-kind musical journey filled with passion, artistry, and evocative Ukrainian folk songs. Audiences across Canada are treated to mesmerizing performances and captivating costumes that breathe life into ancient melodies from Ukrainian villages.
Upcoming shows include: Alberta (November 14-22); British Columbia (November 26-December 3); New Brunswick (December 5,6 and 11); Prince Edward Island (December 7); Nova Scotia (December 8); Quebec (December 13 and 14) Ontario (December 29).
About Gerdan Theatre Group
Gerdans are a cherished part of Ukrainian cultural heritage. Often worn with traditional attire, especially during festivals and cultural celebrations, and feature various symbols — geometric shapes and flowers. It is said that wearing a gerdan offers protection from evil. Through a mix of powerful narratives, striking visuals, and a collaborative spirit, Gerdan Theatre strives to create an inclusive environment where artists and audiences alike can explore, reflect, and connect. Founded on the belief that theatre can inspire, provoke, and unite, Gerdan Theatre produces stories that challenge, inspire, and entertain, bringing audiences into an immersive experience that goes beyond the traditional theatre setting.
About Canada-Ukraine Foundation
Established at the 18th Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), The Canada-Ukraine Foundation (CUF) was formed in order to coordinate, develop, organize and deliver assistance projects generated by Canadians and directed to Ukraine. There will always be a need for an institution to monitor, provide & promote commercial, technical and humanitarian aid; to assess and evaluate projects; to foster cooperation and communication among aid providers; to assist in establishing priorities and developing projects that will maximize impact and cost effectiveness; and to act as a forum that brings together individuals and organizations from the community, private and public sectors, which are interested in providing assistance to Ukraine. CUF therefore was established as a national charitable foundation that would coordinate with Canadian organizations that have projects in Ukraine, as well as other projects in Canada.
