Standing Against Cultural Whitewashing: How We Helped Halt the Mariinsky Theater’s NYC Performance
When friends from the dance community alerted us at Bird of Light Ukraine that the Mariinsky Theater, a renowned Russian ballet company, was scheduled to perform at Lincoln Center, we knew immediate action was necessary. The news struck a chord, especially given the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia—a situation that is both abhorrent and unacceptable. Allowing a state-run Russian institution to perform on one of New York City’s most prestigious stages felt like a covert attempt to normalize relations through art, a cultural Trojan horse we could not ignore.
Mobilizing the Community
Our first step was to rally our contacts and build a coalition strong enough to make an impact. We reached out to the local activist group Svitanok, politicians who have been vocal about supporting Ukraine, and influential business leaders who shared our concerns. The response was overwhelmingly positive; everyone we contacted understood the gravity of the situation and was eager to contribute.
The Power of Protest Art
At Bird of Light Ukraine, we understand the influence of visual impact. We created a provocative piece of protest art—a giant, golden-framed portrait of Vladimir Putin that became the centerpiece of our demonstration. Dressed as a Russian ballet troupe, our protestors performed a haunting dance in front of the portrait, sarcastically praising their “lord” Putin while splattering red paint to symbolize blood. This visceral display was designed to capture attention and convey the serious implications of hosting a Russian state-sponsored group amid ongoing aggression.
On the day of the scheduled performance, we gathered en masse in front of Lincoln Center. The atmosphere was charged with determination and a shared sense of purpose. Our signs carried messages like “They dance, we die,” highlighting the disconnect between the art being performed and the suffering it overshadowed. The protest drew significant attention from passersby, media outlets, and even some members of the art community who joined in solidarity.
A Victory for Ethical Accountability
Our collective efforts culminated in the cancellation of the Mariinsky Theater’s performances at Lincoln Center. The New York Times reported on the decision, noting the complex interplay between art and politics. While some argued that art should be a unifying force, we and many others felt that featuring the Mariinsky Theater at this time would inadvertently support a regime actively engaged in acts of aggression.
The cancellation is not just a victory for us at Bird of Light Ukraine but a testament to what can be achieved when communities unite for a common cause. It sends a clear message that cultural institutions cannot be separated from the actions of the states that sponsor them, especially when those actions involve the violation of international law and human rights.
Moving Forward
We remain committed to supporting Ukraine and advocating for ethical responsibility in the arts. This experience has reinforced our belief that activism can take many forms—from protests and political engagement to the strategic use of art as a means of communication. We encourage others to remain vigilant and to consider the broader implications of cultural events, especially those that may serve to obscure or normalize harmful actions on the global stage.
Our hope is that this serves as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue about the role of art in society and the responsibilities that come with it. We stand firm in our conviction that while art has the power to heal and unite, it should never be used to mask injustice or aggression.
Thank you to everyone who stood with us and to those who continue to fight for justice and accountability worldwide.