Local students and community members are joining voices to spread hope and peace in support of those fleeing the war in Ukraine.
“We have all been shocked and saddened watching recent events unfold in Ukraine,” Vernon Secondary School music director Jason Preston said.
“I said to my student musicians, we have to do something to help.”
The idea for a community-wide benefit concert was born. Together for Ukraine, takes place Monday, May 30, 7:30 p.m., at Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.
Featuring music by Ukrainian composers and songs of hope and peace, performances will take place by VSS, Kal and W.L. Seaton music departments along with special guests Natalia and Alex Polchenko, the Vernon Community Band, and a Ukrainian dance troupe.
Admission is by donation with all donations going to help Ukrainian refugees. You can donate at hart.ca, newmanna.org or redcross.ca
As a newcomer to town, Preston had been told by many that Vernon has a large population of residents with Ukrainian heritage.
“I am not Ukrainian myself but I have travelled there twice and returned to Canada with a love for the Ukrainian people, their warm hospitality and rich musical culture,” Preston said.
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