London, ON –
The Aeolian Hall welcomed over 600 guests and more than 1,000 livestream viewers from over thirty countries to a two-night event raising over $70,000 in support for Ukrainian refugees and those trapped by the conflict in Ukraine on March 24 and 25. The concerts were headlined by Loreena McKennitt and featured more than two dozen other performances. Guests had the opportunity to view an installation by Ukrainian artist Anya Romanenko, who attended with her three nephews. Michael (5), Stephen (11) and Yevhenii (20) were forced to flee Ukraine and are being cared for Romanenko while their parents fight in the city of Kyiv. The Aeolian will continue to raise funds through the sale of yellow and blue lapel ribbons at upcoming events and an online auction to begin later with which includes a guitar signed by all of performers.
“During a time when we may lose hope and feel helpless, we must never forget the power of music and community. Through inspiration, solidarity, and generosity we have proven we can make a big difference. I am so grateful to everyone who made this possible. After two years of terrible stresses, musicians didn’t hesitate to sing out, volunteers and staff worked tirelessly, and Londoners opened their hearts to give.”
– Clark Bryan, Executive & Artistic Director
For many, the event marked the first time performing at or attending a live concert in the two years since the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Seats for both nights were reserved in less than 24 hours and a livestream of the Friday production attracted guests from countries as far away as Korea, Spain, & Germany as well as participants from all 50 US states and every province in Canada. As a not-for-profit, volunteer driven music venue, the Aeolian’s team of volunteers were joined by friends of the W.E.A.N. Community Centre which supports and empowers London’s black and marginalized communities to ensure that the musicians and guests were welcome and accommodated.
The Aeolian Hall is located at 795 Dundas Street in the heart of Old East Village. The Aeolian believes that the arts can enlighten, inspire, and transform, and believes in universal access to music, art, culture, education, and community. The Aeolian presents excellence in performance and creates revolutionary arts programs to build better communities.
The Aeolian wishes to thank all of the donors as well as the London Music Office, Mr. Christopher Collins & Ms. Elana Johnson, Mr. & Mrs. Paul and Sandi Caplan, Mr. Michael Hanson & family and Regency Florists for generous support and contributions toward the event. Romanenko’s installation can be seen by appointment or during Box Office hours and will be available to view online. Donations are still being received at www.aeolianhall.ca/ukraine.
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Organization Contact for Media Inquiries
Clark Bryan, Executive & Artistic Director, Aeolian Hall
Email: clark@aeolianhall.ca | Phone: 519-672-7950
