From the Battlefield to the Stage: The Transformational Power of Cultural Forces
In the midst of war, there are stories that speak not only of survival, but of transformation—where the human spirit, though battered, finds profound new purpose. I conducted a series of interviews that unveil moving narratives through the voices of two extraordinary Ukrainian opera singers: Iurii Ivaskevich and Sergii Ivanchuk. Their journey from the grand stages of opera to the frontlines, and ultimately back to the healing power of music, embodies both the pain and the hope surging through Ukraine today.
Two Brave Guests
Iurii Ivaskevich and Sergii Ivanchuk were both accomplished opera singers before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine changed the course of their lives. On February 24th, 2022, while most of the world reeled in shock, they each made the unthinkable decision to set down their music and take up arms in the defense of their homeland. The transition was anything but smooth; both endured harrowing experiences, one suffering the devastation of a landmine, the other a hail of bullets and a near-fatal journey behind the wheel under fire.
Their stories are testaments to the fragility and resilience of the human body and soul. Iurii describes the surreal morning when he heard about the war from his son, the trauma of injury, and the difficult road to recovery. Sergii recounts the chaos of evacuations, relentless frontline pressure, and the incredible luck—and courage—that allowed him to cheat death.
The Role of Cultural Forces
At the heart of their recovery and renewed mission stands CULTURAL FORCES, a powerful Ukrainian initiative founded by TV personality Kolya Sierga. Born from the urgent need to support and uplift both soldiers and civilians amidst national tragedy, Cultural Forces brings together artists, musicians, and performers to offer hope, comfort, and psychological healing through culture.
It was during the darkest chapters—hospital stays and the long months of rehabilitation—that both men encountered Cultural Forces. A chance bedside performance inspired Iurii to join their ranks, while Sergii found himself drawn in after starring in a documentary about “Soldiers of Song,” which attracted the attention of Kolya. For both, becoming part of Cultural Forces was not merely a return to music, but a continuation of service—using their talents to inspire and heal fellow Ukrainians.
Transformation and Mission
What shines through their dialogue is a sense of mission: both speak of survival not as an endpoint, but as a calling to something greater. Each performance, whether for soldiers in a ward or audiences abroad, is laden with the purpose of rebuilding hearts and minds. Their music, once a profession, is now inseparable from Ukraine’s struggle and hope.
As you watch this video, you’ll witness more than personal accounts of trauma and resilience—you’ll discover how culture itself becomes a force for unity, pride, and recovery. The presence of Mark Kreynovich as translator ensures that every nuance of pain, humor, and inspiration is preserved.
Don’t Miss the Kolya Podcast
If you’re inspired by the story of Iurii and Sergii, I invite you to further deepen your understanding of this remarkable initiative. Check out my just-published podcast episode featuring an in-depth conversation with **Kolya Sierga**, founder of Cultural Forces. Hear firsthand how this movement is shaping Ukraine’s cultural and psychological landscape and why the arts are so critical in the fight for freedom and identity.
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N.B. Discover, share, and be part of the conversation that shows how even in war, the song never dies.
