SEOUL (WNAM MONITORING): A scheduled ballet performance in Korea featuring Svetlana Zakharova, the Ukrainian-born Russian principal dancer of the Bolshoi Ballet, renowned for her support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been canceled amid controversy.
Questions were raised regarding the appropriateness of allowing shows by individuals supportive of Putin, particularly amid the ongoing conflict between Moscow and Kyiv.
Originally scheduled for April 17 to 21 at the Seoul Arts Center, the performance, titled “Modanse,” intended to showcase Zakharova portraying the life of Coco Chanel. The center, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, announced the cancellation on Friday.
“We regret to inform you that the Korea leg of ‘Modanse’ has been cancelled in light of ensuring the safety of both the audience and the artists. We sincerely apologize to all the audience members who were anticipating this performance and kindly request your understanding,” stated the center in its cancellation notice.
The page featuring “Modanse” was removed from the Seoul Arts Center’s website following the notice.
Since early this year, Zakharova’s involvement has sparked controversy, and the Embassy of Ukraine in Korea expressed condemnation on Monday, citing Zakharova and current Bolshoi Theatre director Valery Gergiev for having “actively and vocally condoned the criminal actions of the Russian regime in Ukraine.”
