Ukraine’s active-duty military, comprising professional artists turned soldiers, will be making a stop on their “2nd Music Tour of Gratitude” in Shreveport, Louisiana. This 60+ day cultural diplomacy mission, running from September through November 2024, aims to strengthen the bond between Ukraine and the United States through the universal language of music.
The tour will stop in Downtown Shreveport’s Caddo Common Park on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at 3 PM. Admission is free and open to the public.
What is the 2nd Music Tour of Gratitude?
Having once been renowned musicians before the war, these artists now serve as frontline soldiers and volunteers. They bring with them not only a rich array of music, from Ukrainian and world classics to covers of popular hits and country tunes, but also personal stories of resilience. Many of the artists have survived some of the fiercest battles of the war and returned to music after recovering from severe injuries.
Cultural Forces, the organization behind the tour, is dedicated to enhancing soldiers’ morale and psychological well-being in combat and recovery zones. Through this initiative, the organization bridges cultural diplomacy and emotional support for Ukrainian troops by sharing their music with international audiences.
U.S. Tour Locations
As part of this tour, the performers will visit cities across the U.S., including Washington DC, Richmond, Atlanta, New Orleans, Houston, Dallas, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, among others. Their mission is to thank the American people for their continued support of Ukraine’s quest for peace in Europe and highlight the enduring value of freedom and human rights.
“2nd Tour of Gratitude” Performers
The Shreveport performance is a special occasion, taking place at the new Caddo Common Park in the vibrant Shreveport Common area. Audiences will have the chance to hear performances from a diverse range of artists, including:
- Mykolai Sierga – Founder of Cultural Forces, decorated for bravery as a Captain in the 59th Separate Mechanized Brigade, and a celebrated musician and poet.
- Taras Stoliar – Honored Artist of Ukraine, bandura player, and forward observer in the 112th Territorial Defense Brigade.
- Yurii Ivaskevych – Vocalist, soldier, and war hero who returned to the stage after a combat injury.
- Olha Rukavishnikova – Violinist and combat veteran, who after losing an eye in combat, returned to military duty and continues to perform.
- Sasha Boole – Country singer and multi-instrumentalist, currently serving as Captain in the 22nd Separate Infantry Battalion.
