Light in the darkness benefit show for Ukrainian war victims taking place in Den Haag
- Ikuko
- Feb 10
- 2 min read
Two Ukrainian dancer-choreographers are organising a dance benefit show titled Light in Darkness II.
The benefit show, the second such event organised by Vladyslav Detiuchenko and Veronika Rakitina, will be performed at the Korzo theatre in Den Haag, the Netherlands, on 1st March 2025. All the proceeds from the show will be donated to charity foundation Nederlandse 4 Ukraine.
“On the 24th of February 2025 it will have been three years since Russia invaded Ukraine. This event (the benefit show)* will take place in that same week. Light in Darkness II is dedicated to Ukrainian choreographer, dancer and soldier Volodymyr Rakov, a friend of Vladyslav and Veronika who was killed in battle earlier this year.
“Their (the organisers’)* mission is to raise awareness for Ukraine's courageous struggle for independence and freedom, whilst gathering vital funds to assist those in urgent need. They are committed to providing medical supplies, equipment, and humanitarian aid to those affected by this ongoing crisis.”
The show programme includes:
Rutkay Özpinar - Aphorisms
Maciej Kuzminski - For what is to come
Richèl Wieles & Ukrainian International Ballet - De/Het/Een
Antonii Baryshevskyi - Au vent sur le pointe des pieds(comp. Maxim Shalygin)
Jacopo Godani & Eve Marie Dalcourt - TBA
Vladyslav Detiuchenko & Veronika Rakitina - Everglow
The first Light in Darkness-event last year raised €20,000 through ticket sales and the sale of exclusive artworks by Casper Faassen. The fund was used to purchase and deliver a fully equipped ambulance to Ukraine.
Click here to book a ticket.
* Notes in parentheses are added by me.
Th following text is from the Korzo theatre playbill page and it is unedited.
About Volodymyr Rakov
Born in Yevpatoria, Crimea, Volodymyr Rakov discovered his passion for dance after suffering a severe facial injury in childhood, which left him struggling with self-esteem. Dance became his salvation, helping him gain confidence and express himself. Through immense dedication and unwavering talent, Volodymyr gained international recognition. He won Season 6 of So You Think You Can Dance (Ukrainian version), became a finalist in the World of Dance qualifiers in Berlin, and collaborated with both renowned Ukrainian and international artists. His work also appeared in music videos and global brand commercials.
Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Volodymyr did not hesitate to defend his homeland. He joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces and served in the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade, named after King Danylo, under the call sign ‘Spider.’ On the front lines, Volodymyr piloted FPV drones, completing critical combat missions in one of the most intense battle zones. At the same time, he helped civilians and continued his volunteer work. On January 6, 2025, Volodymyr Rakov was tragically killed in action. ‘It was a great honor to know and have had the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and inspiring person. He is a true legend and hero,’ says Vladyslav about his friend.