Sint Jan Church transforms Tervuren once again into a sanctuary of solidarity and cultural expression with Ukraine on Sunday 16 February from 4pm. This third annual charity concert is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for those suffering in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
“We want to remind ourselves, neighbors, friends, and colleagues that the war in Ukraine is still ongoing. That’s despite decreased media attention. We’ll be telling a story through letters from different times and places, also from front lines in various wars, all supported by music,” said Dace, one of the event’s co-organizers.
The concert aims not only to inform, but also to inspire through charity. “We invite people to donate to support those in need in Ukraine. Especially soldiers in the Zaporizhija region are in dire need of basic supplies like warm food and socks,” Dace added. Over the past two years, the event has successfully raised close to €4,000, reflecting the community’s commitment to the cause.
This year’s event celebrates cultural diversity, featuring performances in Dutch, English, Latvian and French. “We are three Latvians from Tervuren behind the project. But the concert is for everyone,” Dace noted. The evening also includes a taste of Latvian cuisine. Attendees have a choice of hot wine and traditional Latvian sweets post-concert.
The musical program showcases the kokle, a traditional Latvian instrument, alongside the resonant organ of St. Jans Church.
For those interested in supporting or attending, more details are available on the event’s dedicated Facebook page at https://facebook.com/events/s/the-letters/603315475681382
Many thanks to © Nicolas Brookes for the photograph of Sirsnīgais Briseles latviešu teātris’ performance in 2024. More photography by Nicolas at https://www.instagram.com/nsbrookes
