Issue №27 15 November – 15 December 2019 Plastic Fantastic Th e realities of rubbish

Black Friday means deals galore in the capital | A heartfelt initiative provides a lifeline to veterans | Theatre therapy — a good way to welcome winter DOORS OPEN 4 DECEMBER, JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

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WWW.SAYNOMO.COM.UA Contents | Issue 27 15 November – 15 December 2019

Issue №27 15 November – 15 December 2019 Plastic Fantastic Th e realities of rubbish

Plastic –

Black Friday means deals galore in the capital | A heartfelt initiative provides a lifeline to veterans | Theatre therapy — a good way to welcome winter a painstaking problem On the Cover It’s a plastic world 4 WO Words from the Editor 20 What’s Ahead Photo credit: Plastikwood Knee-jerk negativity A few top events to put in your calendar 6 What’s New The world wakes up to 22 Throw Me a Lifeline appropriate spelling, a clever Jared Morgan explores the story reminder the war continues by behind a new hotline hoping Zelenskyy, Ukraine qualifies for to have an effect on suicide EURO 2020, and more prevention – Lifeline Ukraine Jared’s pick this month 8 The Battle for Bargains 24 What’s All the Fuss In war, often the emotional scars run Whether you’re on the hunt for A collection of bits and bobs yourself or gifts for Christmas, for those on the run. Not to be far deeper than the physical. For the the Ukrainian capital is getting missed: the holidays and all of men and women who have served in on the wiles of Black Friday the antics you can look forward with deals deals deals. Just make to in the upcoming months; a in the war in eastern Ukraine that sure you take the necessary fabulously funny Goodbye Lenin; emotional toll can prove too much precautions – shopping can be a new rubric: History Buff, will dangerous keep you connected with past to bear. Lifeline Ukraine is a new antics and their relevance today 10 Plastic Fantastic hotline created to address the issue of Where plastic was once an 28 What’s On the Menu veteran suicide amazing discovery, today it’s little Contrabando keeps more than a hazardous product Antonovycha buzzing with an threatening humans, animals, interesting new concept in Daria’s pick this month and our worldwide biodiversity wining and dining. While Kama Pollution by plastic is a problem will drop you jaw not only for its 12 Kyiv for Students – food but décor too that unites the world. How the story A Life Hack began, what we know today, how International students have 30 What’s in Focus long found Kyiv a good option Halloween makes sure everyone countries are taking steps to solve to continue their secondary has a ghoulishly good time; The educations. Because life here Big Meet makes the end of the the problem, and what you can do to can be a little different to what week something to look forward help. Informed consumption – it’s the these 20-somethings have left to, and not just because it’s the at home, we’ve got a few tips end of the week; the UN makes a new sexy and tricks to help keep your special appearance in this issue head above water with an exhibition in dedication to world refugees 14 What’s On this Month All you need to know, broken 34 Where to Find What’s On down by category, about what An extensive (though not you need to see and do in Kyiv complete!) list of where to find for the next 30 days, including your favourite English-language a wonderful way to spend the culture and entertainment mag month for thespian-loving theatre-goers

The Team: Yana Andyol Contact details: Журнал «WHAT’S ON» №27 від 15 листопада 2019 © All materials published in What’s On Kyiv Originally founded in 1999, What’s On Kyiv business community, both expatriate and Lana Nicole Niland Засновник та видавець: ТОВ «ОУТПОСТ ПАБЛІШІНГ» Marianne Haryazha For general enquiries, submissions, Адреса: 01001, м. Київ, пров. Рильський 4, поверх 6 are the unconditional intellectual property is an English language monthly magazine local, and provides brief news articles on Paul Niland Roman Mykyta Головний редактор/відповідальна за випуск: Кубін Лана Ніколь (Найленд) complaints, or comments write to [email protected], Тел.: +380 95 168 2462 of Outpost Publishing and as such are with a goal to inform residents and visitors events of relevance to Kyiv and Ukraine and Jared Morgan Daria Isaeva [email protected] Журнал зареєстровано як засіб масової інформації в Міністерстві Юстиції Україні, protected by Ukrainian and international to Kyiv of events in the entertainment and the wider region. Lee Reaney Illya Ovchar свідоцтво 22834 – 12734P від 7 серпня 2017 року To advertise in What’s On Kyiv, contact Надруковано в типографії: «Аванпост-Прім», м. Київ, вул. Сурікова, 3 copyright laws. No materials from this cultural life of the city. As well as providing Alina Smolina Natalya Jaddock [email protected] Тираж: 13 000. Журнал розповсюджується безкоштовно. magazine, or the associated website, advice, guidance, and listings of live mu- Natalia Kurtyak Anna Azarova WHAT’S ON magazine №27 from 15.11.2019 may be reproduced without the express sic, theatre, nightlife, sporting events and Tyoma Myronenko Claire Little Founder and publisher: OUTPOST PUBLISHING LLC Address: 01001, Kyiv, Rylskyi lane 4, 6th floor permission of Outpost Publishing. more, What’s On also interacts with the Anna Romanchuk Igor Hodakov State registration certificate 22834 – 12734P dated 7 August 2017 Lera Zdanovych DoubleK LLC Team Chief Editor: Lana Nicole Kubin (Niland), [email protected], Tel.: +380 95 168 2462 Printed by: «Avanpost-Prim», Kyiv, Surikova 3 3 Tassy Klim Printsolution LLC Print run: 13 000. Free distribution. From the Editor

Editor-in-Chief Lana Nicole Niland

I would like to apologise to anyone who might have been offended by a recent post on the What’s On Facebook page over the weekend. The post was an advertisement for a new journalist, “local, male” specifically. The job posting was created in such a way as to ensure balance in the What’s On editorial team where there is currently imbalance; to protect against an unequal perspective in the stories on which we report. It was not meant to wreak havoc. In a team of more than 20, the gender ratio in the WO editorial team is currently three females to every one male. I am glad to be able to offer employment to so many people – both women and men, local and international – however the scales are tipped and have been for some time. As the owner of what I think is a great publication, they need to be rebalanced. Hence the ad. Journalism is a very important sphere in society, where a variety of voices should be heard – not one over another because they yell louder; not one over another because the law says so; not one over another because of discriminatory behaviour. As men, women, or any other orientation or identiy – we offer different perspectives, points of view, outlooks. This is something to be celebrated, not watered down. It was with just such intent I consciously posted this ad: to adjust an unbalanced voice. I am ever aware that in Ukraine, and any other country that cares about discrimination, it is unlawful to advertise based on race, col- our, age, religion, sex, marital status, political beliefs, etc. However, “I also believe that we live I also believe that we live in a world where beauty is found be- cause of our different gender, race, age, etc, not in spite of it. The in a world where beauty is law may state that any distinction in favour of one over another is prohibited. The reality is that equity was the search here, and the found because of our different preference was adopted in good faith, without the intention to dis- criminate, but as a “bona fide occupational requirement”. gender, race, age, etc, not in The world moves so fast today, and with so much neural stimulation it can be hard to understand what is real and what is not, what is spite of it” genuine and what is false, where discrimination exists and where it does not. I would like to believe the majority of us is for this greater good. That is certainly the case today for WO, as it has been, I be- lieve, under each publisher and editor-in-chief of the past. The post has since been taken down. To those who commented, I thank you and respect your point of view. You do not have to agree with mine, it is my hope however that at the very least, the initial knee-jerk reaction to see something negative where none is intended, to see the worst of situation, without first understanding its premise, offers food for thought. In order to do that, though, perhaps the forest could be considered in addition to that of the single tree.

4 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019

What’s New

Ukraine Qualifies for EURO 2020 Ukraine capped off an impressive EURO 2020 qualifying campaign with a com- fortable 2-1 win over Christiano Ronal- do’s Portugal at Olympiyskiy Stadium last month. A sixth-minute goal by Roman Yaremchuk and a 27th-minute strike by Andriy Yarmolenko – his 38th for the na- tional team – was more than enough for the win, even if a late penalty by Ronal- do gave the visitors some false hope. The victory guaranteed Ukraine first place in Group F with a sterling six wins and a draw in seven outings. The team became the fifth nation to qualify for next summer’s EURO 2020 tournament and renders its final match- up against Serbia on 17 November as little more than a friendly. EURO 2020 A Reminder be said is that this was not just a success will be played between 24 nations in 12 due to the size of the gathering, but also countries across the continent next sum- in Mariupol something of a master stroke. Mariupol mer, meaning Ukrainian fans hoping to From time to time, Ukraine hosts large is a place located just under 20 km from see the games live will have to travel to gatherings of international investors, ex- the front-line of Russia’s war against at least two different countries. The suc- perts, and diplomats, and for the most Ukraine. Now firmly under Ukrainian cessful qualifying campaign comes after part these forums and meetings take place control, the city was briefly occupied by Ukraine won it’s 2019 Nations League in Kyiv where guests to this city can enjoy the inaptly named “separatists” for a pe- group and sees the nation move into the its beauty and splendour. However, Pres- riod in the summer of 2014. Top 10 in European football rankings. ident Zelenskyy is not, to say the least, Hosting this summit, in this place, at this The draw for EURO 2020 will take place a traditional kind of President. Under time, was a very symbolic move, under- on 30 November. Zelenskyy’s watch, as we already know, scoring (without even needing to say it things are going to be different. And so it out loud) the fact that the war on the was that a major Ukraine summit involv- doorstep of Mariupol has been, since ing some 700 guests was held in the south day one, fabricated by Russia. The sub- eastern port city of Mariupol. liminal messaging to the international What the attendees made of the infra- press was such that if this place can have structure of the city, the quality of the been occupied and liberated, and be a hotels, or the arduous journey there, has peaceful part of a united Ukraine, what not been commented on much. What can does that tell you?

Success in the Hague! The International Court of Justice, a UN court based in the Hague, has just ruled to dis- miss Russia’s arguments that this body does not have jurisdiction to judge a case relating to Russia’s financing of terrorism in relation to Russia’s arming and supporting the forces fighting against Ukraine in the Donbas. This is important on several levels. Number one, Russia has been disingenuously pretending they have nothing to do with the war in Ukraine’s east since the outset. This, of course, is poppycock, and with the court having rejected Russia’s technical claim that they do not have jurisdiction (see the word “International” in the name of the court, Mr Putin?) we are now about to see evidence presented, which demonstrates, beyond any shadow of doubt, Russia’s guilt in this matter. Second, when said evidence is presented, maybe the international press can stop us- ing words like “separatists” and “rebels” as they are neither. The forces fighting against Ukraine are Russian led, under Russian command, following Russian orders, under Rus- sia’s thumb, and hanging from Russia’s puppet strings. This is therefore an international conflict: Russia against Ukraine. Third, “Russia named as state sponsor of terrorism by UN Court” (when we get there, but the evidence will show it is so) looks like a fantastic headline. So, hats off to Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Olena Zerkal and her team for this first phase of this historic victory. Bravo.

6 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 #KyivNotKiev As long as taxi drivers complain because they don’t understand where to drop you off – is it Pivnichnyi Bridge or Moskovskyi? Velyka Vasylkivska or Chervonoarmiiska? – local initiatives continue to do away with a destructive Soviet heritage that serves no one, which is only a good thing! other than stupidity). The ask from the Another campaign to this effect, more in- Trump that! White House to Bankova then increased ternational in scope, was launched on 2 Sadly, Ukraine has become embroiled in to include a look into whether some serv- October 2018. The Ministry of Foreign a teeny tiny but of political scandal in er (“they say Crowdstrike” is a direct Affairs of Ukraine together with strategic the United States. For those looking for a quote from the memorandum – NOT a communications centre StratCom Ukraine quick catch up, here’s the Cliffs Notes… transcript of the Zedlenskyy-Trump call) joined forces on operation #CorrectUA. Its First off, it appears that Zelenskyy isn’t is located in Ukraine. This matter, how- purpose was to reach out to foreign media the first Ukrainian president to succumb ever, is not only without evidence, it is an in the hopes they would correct the Russian to the demands of Donald Trump. The absurd conspiracy theory. transliterated go-to of Kiev to the Ukraini- timeline between the first time the US Third, when it appeared that President an variant – Kyiv. agreed to provide lethal military aid to Zelenskyy found himself malleable The domino effect was helped along by Ukraine and Ukraine dropping investi- enough to contort to Trump’s (very ille- The Washington Post recently, which official- gations into the actions of now convict- gal) demands, which amount to asking ly stated that they would make the switch, ed criminal Paul Manafort during the for political assistance from a foreign triggering many airports and foreign pub- presidency of Petro Poroshenko looks, country, then the hatchet men (Rudy lications to do likewise. The International well, suspect. Giuliani, Ambassador Sondland) de- Air Transport Association, The Guardian, the Second, it appears that as Trump was get- manded it be Zelenskyy personally (not ВВС, Associated Press, Bloomberg, eand ting his way with Zelenskyy, as is always the new prosecutor general) who would many other pages are among those who the case with extortionists, the demands announce these “investigations”; and on support the change. Throughout the cam- on Ukraine increased. A “request” to in- CNN no less. paign, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has vestigate the actions of the son of former That’s where we are at. And all we can posted updates on Facebook and Twitter US Vice President Joe Biden in Ukraine say in only the third president in history covering those cases where leading foreign was the starting point (NB: there is no ev- being faced with the impeachment pro- media continue to use the incorrect spelling. idence Hunter Biden is guilty of anything cess is, good luck. While some may bock at the importance of this issue, by law, the outdated Kiev is pro- hibited. If we look to history only and the legends of the founders of the city – sister Lybid and brothers Horyv, Shchek, and Kyi, the logic is simple. Kyi is not spelled Speak Ukrainian Kie, so Kyiv is surely not Kiev. This latter Ukraine is, by and large, a bilingual country. To some that statement is borderline scandal- variant was derived from the Soviet era and ous. There is one official state language, and it is Ukrainian, they would argue. While that is, unfortunately, still in circulation. How is correct, it is also a fact that pretty much everyone in Ukraine speaks both Ukrainian and often is Ukraine confused with Russia? Russian. Constantly. Of course, historical texts are However, attitudes towards language choice have shifted rapidly in recent years as Ukraini- another hurdle, as is changing the spelling ans continue to build on their national identity. In years gone by, locals would often assume of Chicken Kiev, but one step at a time. a foreigner here would have a better grasp of Russian than Ukrainian and accommodate accordingly. Nowadays, the norm is for people to assume that there is an understanding of the state (and now more preferred) language, and we, as guests of this country, should And more changes are to come. Follow along to accommodate our hosts instead of them being accommodating to us. see the latest updates To get to the point, learning Ukrainian just got easier, and, the best news is that you can Kyivnotkiev do it for free! The Ministry of Information Policy has just launched a new interactive And make sure you check online Ukrainian language course called Speak Ukrainian, which can be found at www. out this interactive map to speakukraine.net. According to a Ministry spokesperson, it is designed to be “easy and get a visual on who has enjoyable” rather than “dull and dry”. made the switch: There’s never been a better time to switch over from pozholuista to bud’ laska. Sto vidsotkiv!

7

Black BLACK FRIDAY IS IMMINENT. PREPARE TO SHOP

FridayTassy Klim SaleThe Battle for Bargains Though many disastrous events through- A BIT OF EVERYTHING: out history have earned the nickname Kasta BE REASONABLE ‘Black Friday’, the term took on a whole kasta.ua Stay hydrated, bring snacks, and don’t new meaning in the 1980s when Ameri- pick up items you don’t need just because cans began using it to refer to the day af- FRAGRANCES: of the price. Bring a friend along for a ter Thanksgiving as the busiest shopping Parfum City valuable second opinion: there is safety in day in the year. The most common expla- parfumsity.com.ua numbers and more carrying power. If the nation behind the name is that it’s the first queues are endless, or someone steps on day of the year when most retailers start FOR ADULTS: your feet, try to stay zen and avoid con- turning a profit – their accounts finally go Intim-shop Amurchik flicts. If anyone starts acting aggressively, ‘into the black’. amurchik.ua just back off. Should you opt to engage in the Black Fri- day frenzy, it’s important to go into it with TECHNOLOGY: OPT OUTSIDE a game plan – and we here at WO are all Rozetka In recent years, many retailers have start- about helping you do just that. So, gear rozetka.ua ed to reject Black Friday and the mate- up and get ready to spend your entire sal- rialist culture that it upholds. American ary in one day – Christmas is coming and These couple of links will help you find outdoor retail chain REI started the it’s time to shop. even more than what you were initial- #OptOutside campaign to encourage ly looking for: blackfridays.com.ua and their customers to avoid the shopping STAY SAFE OR RISK IT ALL blackfriday.skidochnik.com.ua mania and spend the day in nature in- Since 2006 there have been more than stead. Since the campaign launched in 10 Black Friday-related deaths in the US There are special add-ons for 2015, lots of retailers have joined the call alone, and more than 100 injuries. While to action and closed their doors on Black the chances of getting hurt whilst shop- browsers to check if the prices are Friday, encouraging consumers to reject ping here in Ukraine are miniscule, it’s really down on some websites, fast fashion and go and enjoy the great worth having your wits about you, just in outdoors. That’s not quite the case here case. Of course, there is an easy way to like Aliexpress. in Ukraine. avoid the crowds – stay at home and do Black Friday can turn an ordinary shop- your shopping online! DON’T GET LOST! ping trip into a fun and exciting challenge. Savvy shoppers should beware of online If you’re ready to leave the warm nest While missing out on deals can leave you retailers like Aliexpress.com who massive- of home and join the hordes on the high with the bitter sting of disappointment, ly drop their prices on Black Friday, only street, be careful! It’s easy to get over- just remember to keep your feelings in to hit you with inflated shipping charges whelmed if you try to take on too much. check and don’t get caught up in the neg- so you end up spending more. If it seems If you want to ‘catch ‘em all’ – all the bar- ativity. Because if you’re not having fun, too good to be true, it probably is. gains, that is – your best bet could be visit- then why even bother? Be aware that the best deals can disap- ing a mall or department store. Study their pear at the speed of light, so you will need maps and come up with a plan of attack. to have quick reflexes and a fast internet connection, as well as a reliable computer. These destinations have everything you And remember that the battle for savings need under one roof: On average, begins at the stroke of midnight! The brick-and-mortar stores can only extend TSUM Ukrainians spend their opening hours so much, but on the  (Khreschatyk 38) 3 000 UAH on tsum.ua Internet the rules are there are no rules. Black Friday. Here are some of our favourite Ukrain- Dream Town ian online stores getting into the Black  (Obolonskyi Pr 1b) Friday spirit: dreamtown.ua

8 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 feature

Daria Isaeiva and autorNataliaPlastic Kurtyak Fantastic THERE ARE MORE THAN 190 COUNTRIES AND BILLIONS OF PEOPLE ON THIS LITTLE PLANET WE CALL EARTH. FROM TIME TO TIME, Plastic is also produced at extremely low sils, and sticks for inflatable balloons with DIFFERENT STATES ARE AT cost. But it has two huge drawbacks - its paper and plastic alternatives being of- ODDS WITH EACH OTHER, break-down period is more than 450 fered instead. In addition, by 2025, mem- BUT GENERALLY SOME years and making a new batch of plastic ber states have agreed to put initiatives PROBLEMS EXIST THAT bottles is several times cheaper than reus- in place that would allow 90% of plastic UNITE ALL OF US. ONE ing or recycling an existing one. bottles to be recycled. The UK has already SUCH GLOBAL PROBLEM IS Plastics plants emit up to 400 million presented a 25-year environmental plan THAT OF PLASTIC tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmos- that will take effect from the end of 2019. phere per year and approximately 800 species of animals today are threatened CLOSER TO HOME Plastic was invented in 1855 by Alexan- with extinction through eating the ma- Ukraine’s neighbour Moldova recent- der Parks, which appeared then as a near terial and getting plastic poisoning – a ly approved a law banning the sale and revelation. A century later and plastic be- serious threat to the entire ecosystem. Ac- use of 50 microns or more of bags, and came a staple of life. So ingrained in the cording to UN environmentalists, about from 1 January 2020, the Moldovan gov- fabric of culture, it was often mentioned 13 million tonnes of plastic waste are re- ernment will ban the sale and use of bags by protagonists in television shows, films, leased into the ocean each year, with plas- 15-50 microns thick; from 2021 – nothing and books as one of the greatest discover- tic accounting for 80 percent of all trash less than 15 microns will be legal, with ies of the century. found there. Under the influence of the fines to be paid by both sales agents and sun’s rays, plastic in the ocean splits into buyers if caught. ONE WORD small particles, with microgranules accu- While the situation in Ukraine is still In the famous first scene of the 1967 mov- mulating into persistent toxic substances much to be desired, the government re- ie The Graduate, main character Benjamin that float on the surface. cently approved law 2051-1, which re- Braddock, receives astonishing advice stricts the use of plastic bags in Ukraine from neighbour McGwire. As if divulg- A GROWING PROBLEM from January 2022. Still critical, however, ing a great secret, McGwire mysteriously The ratio of plastic waste to marine life is the fact that almost 96% of all waste in says: “One word - plastic!” in the ocean is currently at 1:5, and unless Ukraine, including plastic, goes to land- The phrase has become a catchphrase global policy on plastic production and fills, where natural decomposition in soil that explains how the perception of processing changes, there will be more continues for decades. material in society has changed. For the garbage than fish by 2050. The problem older generation, the word “plastic” was is that wherever plastic is thrown away, SLOW STEPS synonymous with new opportunities and the entire ecosystem is affected, as the At this stage, while Ukraine leaves work- progress. For the young, it has come to fish and fowl that eat a piece of this mi- ing out official next steps, each individu- mean everything false, superficial, and croplastic in the sea, ocean, or pond may al’s personal attention to their conscious surrogate. Still, the neighbour’s advice be on your table. use of plastic can make a difference. In was helpful. Half a century later, despite While there is currently no evidence that Kyiv, a group called “I am for a clean its dubious reputation, plastic production plastic from an animal’s stomach seeps Kyiv” (ya_za_chistyi_Kyiv) gather regu- has grown 20-fold. It will double again in into its body and thereby the food on your larly in different parks and squares of the the next 20 years. plate, you should definitely worry about city to collect plastic garbage for further the damage that cannot be seen: chemi- processing. THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES cals added to the plastic to give it elastic- If you can’t make it out, you can still do Though plastic is a major threat to the ity become nanoplastics in decay, which, your part by refusing plastic glasses in fa- environment, this material has several when broken down by the sun, can cer- vour of reusable, changing out your plas- advantages – it is simply synthesised, has tainly penetrate the tissue of fish, animals, tic straws and toothbrushes for paper and low thermal conductivity, is frost resistant, and humans. bamboo respectively, replacing plastic does not break like glass, and is hundreds The world is slowly waking to the problem bags with reusable ones, and, of course of times lighter than iron. It does not get and is taking its first steps to combat plastic spreading the message to one and all, in- wet like paper and has a melting point of pollution. In December 2018, 28 Europe- cluding the elderly and the young, about 190 to 300 degrees Celsius, which makes an Union countries decided by 2021 to the harm plastic causes and how its prop- it virtually unchanged in everyday life. ban the use of plastic straws, plastic uten- er disposal is very important.

10 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Fantastic

GLOBAL ATTITUDES • Single use cutlery is banned in Seattle and comes with a 250 USD fine • Kenya has imposed the most severe punishment in the world for using or HERE IN UA selling plastic bags: up to four years in • The average person uses more than 500 prison or a 40 000 USD fine. plastic bags per year, which almost im- • In Australia in July 2018, two states mediately ends up in the garbage. WRAPPED IN PLASTIC banned the use of plastic bags, with • Only 5% of plastic is recycled in PlasticWood Animations presents Wrapped fines totaling 46 000 USD, and their use Ukraine, and polymer waste accounts in Plastic, an interactive exhibition consist- no longer being permitted in supermar- for up to 40% of all landfills. 2 ing of more than 1 000 m of art, perfor- ket chains Coles and IGA. • Only a few Kyiv restaurants have volun- mance, and stop-motion animation. With tarily opted out of plastic but they are thousands of pieces of plastic making it definitely worth your patronage: Bimbo into the exhibition rather than the land- Coffee & More, London Coffee House, fill, this is a hugely unique installation. Bali Bowl Café, Altruist, Sereda Vegan They promise the experience will change Point, Druzi Café, and Svit Kavy. Some your attitude towards disposable plastic of them even give you an additional dis- forever. count if you give up the plastic cup in favour of your reusable one. Wrapped in Plastic Tuesday-Friday at 17.00-19.00, weekends at 13.00-21.00 PlasticWood Animations (Yaroslavska 57) To get together with like-minded FREE people check out:  PlasticWood Animations  Insta ya_za_chistyi_kyiv_

11 Yana Andyol Kyiv for Students THE LIFE OF A STUDENT – AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT – IN KYIV A Lifehack

On 17 November, students around the opportunities to change your group or talent, sports team, or fan-clubs. Raves globe will celebrate. Prior to the party, we faculty, or take an academic “gap” year. and opera performances, open-air con- here at What’s On thought it might be certs and “free student entrance days” interesting to find out what life is like for Need some help? Here’s a few organ- to museums, lectures and reading nights international students here in Kyiv. After isations to contact for legal/admission – the list of activities is endless! Kyiv is all, life here is a little different… assistance: resourceful enough to offer all kinds of leisure. And celebrating International Students’ Day is no exception. Those in- ME VS THEM STUDY IN UKRAINE Ukrainian State Centre for International terested in all-night parties on just such Kyiv as a city is generally open to diversi- an occasion may consider: ty and tolerance. The country you came Education. Visit the FAQ page at www. studyinukraine.gov.ua and find informa- from, family status, skin colour, religion: Studance Party tion concerning visas, the admission pro- almost nothing fazes your groupmates or 16 November at 21.00 cess, and studying. professors. The way you interact, com- VDNH (Hlushkova 1) municate, take part in student initiatives 350 – 700 UAH STUDWAY are the only things that matter. Chances studance.com.ua are you’ll celebrate traditional Ukrainian An online media platform covering life- hacks, students’ rights, programmes, and Christmas by invitation of a close group- Modern Jazz and Music Improvisa- career opportunities for both Ukraini- mate in a couple of months. tion Fest “Am I Jazz?” ans and foreigners. The content is only in Headliner: Grammy-winning Ukrainian so far, but Google always helps. American singer Bilal DORMITORY OR BUST studway.com.ua Long lines to the bathroom and kitch- 17 November CLOSER (Nyzhnoiurkivska 31) en are regular. Your roommate hasn’t KYIV IS COMPLICATED 100 – 750 UAH stopped talking on the phone for the past The transport system here isn’t that com-  Closer.Jazz three hours. Another is “meditating” with plex compared to those in Barcelona or Rammstein turned up. The majority of London. But searching for the right way out If you’re looking for a more laid-back non-resident students in Kyiv universities of Metrograd, understanding the difference option, here’s a few venues you might share these dormitories – which are a lit- between Chervonoarmiyska and Velyka want to consider: tle different than those in the west – with Vasylkivska, and being able to gasp the mys- others enrolled in the programme. Be terious schedule of local marshrutkas might Druzi Cafe prepared to miss your own home, private be a challenge at first. Things usually get Activities: Jenga, Dixit, Monopoly shower, and your seat at the kitchen ta- worse during peak hours, but try not to pan- Prorizna 3/5 ble – most university-based dorms are far ic: ask for help and study the city on the go. from comfortable. Andriivskyi Spusk, 2D  Druzicafe However, this is also the place where Tip: The travel guide Kyiv by Locals is an op- social life begins. Only here do you find tion instead of googling. Apart from the de- Smart-cafe BiblioTech missing lecture notes, a Halloween make- tailed description of the places to eat/stay/ Activities: Mafia, Monopoly, up guru, and a Windows installation entertain, the manual clearly explains the Table soccer, X-box pro. This is also a life-time source of the city infrastructure by regions. Saksahanskoho 120 brightest and craziest memories you hap- Price: 250 UAH pily share (or not) after your studies end. 45 UAH/hour  bibliotech.com.ua ENTERTAIN US DON’T LIKE IT – CHANGE IT It’s easy to get lost here, and it’s easy to BUZZ Bar You find your professor’s tone inappropri- find people who share the same interests. Activities: Uno, Dobble, Jenga, ate, you don’t get along with your group- The city isn’t limited to Khreschatyk, Crocodile, Alias, Dixit mates, or you find the school programme although walking here late at night with Yaroslavska 10 disappointing. It still happens from time a bunch of friends is fun. Kyiv is a city  k.o.k.c.bar to time, unfortunately, so try not to ignore where anyone can join in on a communi- it. Educational and legal policies provide ty according to career preference, artistic

12 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 — —YOUR ВIДРОДЖЕННЯ RE-BIRTHMEMORABLE OF A KИЇВСЬКОЇ KYIVEVENTS LEGEND ЛЕГЕНДИ . . IN THE ОНОВЛЕНИЙ PREPARENEW TO BLU BE RADISSON BLU AMAZED — —

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r adisson b l u .com/h ote l-kie v radissonblu.com/hotel-kiev

Untitled-3549 1 11-09-2019 10:35:39 Untitled-3549 1 11-09-2019 10:35:39 Art & Family | 15 November — 15 December 2019

The Forbidden Image Ivan Marchuk. 28 June – 5 January Secrets of Genius PinchukArtCentre 18 October – 15 December (V Vasylkivska/Baseina 1, 3 – 2) Artarea (Sofiivska 11 – 15) Free 150 – 200 UAH new.pinchukartcentre.org artarea.kiev.ua PinchukArtCentre artarea.official MIKHAILO DEYAK: MEMORIES Frontier. New Monuments. Until 21 November Passport Photo Art and VR-Reality Voloshyn Gallery (Tereshchenkivska 13) 5 November – 19 November 23 September – 17 November Memories is a new solo project by Ukrainian Kyiv History Museum M17 Contemporary Art Centre artist Mikhailo Deyak, designed as an im- (B Khmelnytskoho 7) (Antonovycha 102 – 104) mersive installation. Every visitor to this 45 UAH 100 UAH space, among the massive glass and metal kyivhistorymuseum.org m17.kiev.ua art objects, can become a co-creator of kyivhistorymuseum m17art.center this captivating environment, enabled to dive deep into themselves and their own Embroidery of Eastern Podillia memories. Metempsychosis by Ola Rondiak 12 October – 11 December Free From 21 November Ivan Honchar Museum (Lavrska 19) voloshyngallery.art Maidan Museum (Lypska 16) 30 UAH voloshyngallery maidanmuseum.org honchar.org.ua honcharmuseum Circus Show Snow Queen Sand Fairy Tale Paraska Plytka-Horytsvit. 16 November at 15.00 8 December at 12.00 Overcoming Gravity Kinder Club Budynok Kino (Saksahanskoho 6) 17 October – 19 January (Hryhorenka Pr 23) 120 UAH Mystetskyi Arsenal (Lavrska 10 – 12) 200 UAH ukrkino.com.ua 40 – 80 UAH kinderclub.in.ua ukrkino artarsenal.in.ua Mystetskyi.Arsenal At the Seaside Winterra. Legend of the Fairy 17 November at 13.00 Tale World New Ukrainian Theatre 12 December at 19.00 (Mykhailivska 24ж) VDNH (Akademika Hlushkova Pr 1) 150 UAH 250 UAH nut.kiev.ua vdng.ua

The Nutcracker The Magic Book of Nicholas 20 November at 15.00 14 December at 15.00 KMAOBT for Children and Youth House of the Architect (Hrinchenka 7) (Mezhyhіrska 2) 120 UAH 50 – 100 UAH arhite.com.ua musictheatre.kiev.ua

Masha and the Bear 24 November at 13.00 Kyiv Academic Puppet Theatre AN UNDULY RESTRICTIVE VIEW (Hrushevskoho 1a) OF SALVATION: VINNYTSIA LIMBO 80 – 150 UAH 31 October – 1 December akadempuppet.kiev.ua Dymchuk Gallery (Yaroslavska 21) In the 2000s, Vinnytsia was one of the The Wolf and the Seven 27TH IWCK CHARITY BAZAAR primary hubs for illegal migration from Young Goats 30 November at 10.00 Somalia to the EU. This project is an in- 28 November at 17.00 NSC Olympiyskiy (V Vasylkivska 55) vestigation of how Somali migrants might Kyiv Municipal Academic Puppet Theatre Bringing together embassies and local vol- have perceived this city; for the exhibition, (Myropilska 1) unteers, this colourful event raises money for the artists have reconstructed the conditions 70 UAH local charities that assist women, children, of the cheap rented apartments where they puppet-theater.kiev.ua the elderly, and the disabled in Ukraine. It’s used to stay. How did these people feel af- also an opportunity to take a trip into un- ter fleeing the horrors of the civil war? Did Crazy Dreamers familiar cultures and cuisines: every year, they feel abandoned in a foreign city, among 29 November at 18.00 different countries proudly showcase their strangers and an alien culture? Or were they National Circus of Ukraine crafts, national dishes, music, and folklore. optimistic at the idea of transition to a hap- (Peremohy Pl 2) So, bring your children, have fun and lend a py life in Europe? 100 UAH helping hand, because 100% of the money Free circus.kiev.ua raised goes to charity. dymchuk.com 90 – 120 UAH DymchukGallery IWCKyiv

14 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Nightlife | 15 November — 15 December 2019

Bachata Addiction Black! Factory 21 November 21.00 29 November 23.55 Habana (Verkhnyi Val 24) Kyivmetrobud (Svitlohorska 2/25) 50 UAH From 1200 UAH +38 095 709 6234 +38 067 658 8951

Super Disco UA Electro 22 November 20.00 30 November 23.00 Stereo Plaza (Lobanovskoho 119) Otel’ (Nyzhnoiurkivska 31) TBA From 150 UAH +38 067 445 3458 +38 063 618 0145 DNB ONLY VINYL NIGHT VOL.12 15 November at 23.00 Nachtmahr in Kyiv! Tuxedo Junction Volume Club (Harmatna 26/2) 23 November 18.30 30 November 20.00 Are you over 18 and keen to spend some Art-club Tepliy Lampovy (Mykhaila Event Hall Signal (Zhylianska 97) quality time with the best vinyls, in the Omelianovycha-Pavlenka 4/6) TBA company of the beautiful and talented? From 400 UAH swingdance.ua The likes of Maxnrg, Denny Roll, and tepliy.lampoviy Buzzkeeper will rock your body so that +38 063 603 7569 Wolfanger even your half-warm batteries at home will 30 November 17.30 get hot! So what do you say about dancing Closer: Seth Troxler Volume Club (Harmatna 26/2) until morning to music that makes your 23 November 23.55 TBA veins vibrate from excitement? Yes please! Closer (Nyzhnoiurkivska 31) volumeconcertclub Hurry up and grab your ticket. TBA From 150 UAH closerkiev Winter Energy 2019 volumeconcertclub 30 November 19.00 Art-club Tepliy Lampovy Zhar: Madness (Mykhaila Omelianovycha-Pavlenka 4/6) 15 November 23.00 From 400 UAH River Port (Nyzhnyi Val 67) tepliy.lampoviy From 150 UAH riverportkyiv DrymbaDaDzyga 1 December 21.00 Portraits: Decadance Birthday Docker Pub (Bohatyrska 25) Episode FREE 16 November 22.00 +38 044 537 1340 CHI by Decadence House (Parkova Doroha 16a) RHYTHM BÜRO: Closer: Carl H From 500 UAH SEASON CLOSING 13 December 23.55 +38 044 466 2013 6 December at 23.50 Closer (Nyzhnoiurkivska 31) Dovzhenko Film Studio (Peremohy Pr 44) TBA 2 Years of Criminal Practice w/ Baby it’s cold both outside, but the closerkiev Audri Rhythm Büro family are offering a 16 November 23.30 chance to warm up with pure musical Vystavka Techno River Port (Nyzhnyi Val 67) creativity. You won’t be able to explore 13 December 23.00 TBA it in any other form, as all cameras will Palats Kultury Kurenivka riverportkyiv be packed away. Instead, you’ll have to (Kostiantynivska 73) come down in person to enjoy the sounds TBA Bad Girls Party of Rhythm Büro. What else could you +38 098 869 7373 20 November at 22.00 ask for on a winter’s night? Only good Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) company and an absolutely perfect mix. Ladies Free, From 449 UAH gents 250 UAH rhythmburo.com caribbean.com.ua

SOUNDS NO BOUNDS (IL, PROGRESSIVE HOUSE) 30 November at 21.00 Pochanyna Event Hall (Stepana Banderi 23) Without changing the established traditions from the first party that created such a buzz at Avionics, the MDS (Music Discovery Selection) team is back with a Lost & Found showcase, consisting of experts from Israel in high-quality progressive house. The line-up consists of Guy J, Guy Mantzur, Chicola, and Khen all of whom are going to play as though sound has no bounds. 500 UAH mds.network

15 Theatre | 15 November — 15 December 2019

Classical Music under the Stars. Mozart & Brahms Allegretto Kyiv Mozart Quartet 16 November at 19.30 21 November at 19.00 Kyiv Planetarium (V Vasylkivska 57/3) House of Actor 250 – 450 UAH (Yaroslaviv Val 7) planet.org.ua 300 – 400 UAH MarcoConcert Futurism Mystery show, theatre, play Got to Be Free 16 and 23 November at 19.00 12 real-life stories which will leave Art Zavod Platoforma (Magnitorskaya 1v) you speechless 550 UAH 21 November at 19.00 mysteryplayua Theatre on Podil (Andriyivskyi Uzviz 20a/b) THE ZOO STORY Opera under the Starry Sky: 400 UAH 4 December at 19:30 in search of the Fifth Element theatreonpodol.com Lesia Ukrainka National Academic 17 November at 19.30 Theatre (B Khmelnytskoho 5) Kyiv Planetarium (V Vasylkivska 57/3) Baroque under the Starry Sky Edward Albee poured his heart 250 – 450 UAH Bach, Vivaldi, Handel, Pergolesi into this play, describing themes planet.org.ua 23 November at 19.30 that were of huge importance for Kyiv Planetarium society back in the 1950s. Now Lord of the Dance (IR) (V Vasylkivska 57/3) these themes are fresh and pressing Irish Dance Spectacular 250 – 450 UAH like never before. The play tells the 19 November at 19.00 planet.org.ua story of two strangers – Peter and Palats Ukraina (V Vasylkivska 103) Jerry – who accidentally meet near 550 – 4 200UAH Woe from Wit the zoo. This encounter triggers an palace-ukraine.com Alexander Griboyedov’s classic play exploration of our place in society 24 November at 19.00 and our isolation, as Peter and Jerry Kyiv Academic Young Theatre face the fact that we all undergo the SYMPHONY QUEEN (Prorizna 17) same struggles in life, whether rich 25 November at 19.00 80 – 300 UAH or poor, single or married. Caribbean Club molodyytheatre.com 80 UAH (Symona Petlyury 4) rusdram.com.ua 2019 gave us Bohemian Rhapsody, Giselle and its soundtrack still lives on in Ballet featuring our playlists. If you’re impatiently Ana Sophia Scheller (AR) Teulis waiting for something, anything, 24 November at 19.00 Shadow Theatre Queen-related, you’re in luck: this National Opera of Ukraine 1 December at 14.00, 19.00 month there’s a chance to enjoy (Volodymyrska 50) Kyiv Conservatory (Horodetskoho 1-3/11) a symphonic concert, featuring 200 – 2 020 UAH 190 – 650 UAH Queen hits performed by GosOr- opera.com.ua ttteulis chestra. We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, and Who Wants to Live The Secret of Genius Chopin. Nocturnes Forever will set a rocking, jubilant Kyiv Soloists 5 December at 19.00 tone for your week. 27 November at 19.00 House of Architect (Hrinchenka 7) 400 – 790 UAH St Catherine’s Lutheran Church 150 – 300 UAH caribbean.com.ua (Liuteranska 22) SvitloConcert 200 – 350 UAH SoloistsKyiv Grand Rock Piano Show 7 December at 19.00 The Organ Show Apocalypse. Palats Kultury KPI (Peremohy Pr 37) Stalker 200 – 900 UAH Electric Sound Orchestra feel.itvibes 28 November at 19.30 Kyiv Planetarium A Dog’s Waltz (V Vasylkivska 57/3) Scary Comedy 400 – 790 UAH 8 December at 19.00 planet.org.ua New Ukrainian Theatre Art Centre (Mykhailivska 24) Natasha’s Dream 250 UAH Two girls’ confession nut.kiev.ua 29 November at 19.00 Golden Gate Theatre Voice of the Sympho Rock (Shovkovychna 7a) 12 December at 19.00 220 UAH Palats Ukraina (V Vasylkivska 103) zoloti-vorota.kiev.ua 290 – 1600 UAH palace-ukraine.com

16 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Performing Art Therapy NEED A PICK-ME UP? GRAB ers carry the burden of bullying, iso- A TICKET, PICK A SEAT, AND lation and their teachers’ indifference. LET THEATRE WORK OUT Meanwhile, the teachers recount how THE KINKS they became the people they are. The performance reflects contemporary Ukrainian society, in which every day Yana Andyol is a lesson, regardless of whether or not you’re sitting in a classroom.

RICHARD III For Ukrainians, a trip to the theatre “Richard loves Richard.” This is a isn’t just about dressing up and drink- performance for fans of classical the- ing bubbly: it’s also one way to pro- KAIDASHI 2.0 (18+) atre: no experiments, no remakes, cess the constant dynamic changes Wild Theatre gives us a modern just pure Shakespeare. Through tal- in society, politics and the economy. twist on a classic story by Ivan Ne- ented lead actor Bohdan Beniuk, the From experimental adaptations of chyi-Levytskyi. The Kaidash family’s audience will discover the hidden, Greek myths to heartbreaking per- quarrel over a pear tree – all too fa- complicated, unstable, and tragic sonal stories, via classic Shakespear- miliar to Ukrainians – is transformed personality that is Richard. The story ean plays, the capital offers a wide into a contemporary cross-genera- exemplifies how loneliness can give repertoire of hard-hitting theatre tional conflict, riddled with politics way to power, ending up in madness, therapy this month. and social stigma. In catchy humor- violence, and tyranny. ous bursts of surzhyk, the play ex- ORESTEIA (18+) plores stereotypes that still prevail in Ancient Greek myths, and the plays the Ukrainian post-Soviet mindset, they inspired, are endowed with a reflects on the tragedy of war in the timeless power. Aeschylus’s Orest- east, and takes a long, hard look at eia is no exception: its themes of the future. revenge and justice are as relevant as ever. Theatre on Podil and Miz- anthrop Theatre have updated the Wild Theatre ancient myth to speak the language Stage 6 (Vasylkivska 1) of modern times, addressing both 30 November at 20.00 the ancient cult of the human body 26 December at 20.00 and the advent of technology, with 27 December at 20.00 an experimental fusion of digital vis- 200 – 500 UAH ualisation, opera and electro, and a wildtheatre.ua linguistic mix including Latin, Old wild-t.com.ua Slavic, Ukrainian, Russian, and clas- sical Greek. KLAS (16+) Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre In this play, officially defined as “al- Ivana Franka Pl 3 most a documentary”, the actors re- 29 November at 19.00 tell pupils’ and teachers’ stories of 290 – 650 UAH school. Some cherish memories of ft.org.ua first love and wild parties, while oth-

Kyiv Academic Theatre of Drama and Comedy Brovarskyi Pr 25 22 November at 19.00 27 December at 19.00 240 UAH Theatre on Podil drama-comedy.kiev.ua Andriyivskyi Uzviz 20b 16 November at 18.00 13 December at 19.00 200 – 700 UAH theatreonpodol.com NB: all plays in Ukrainian unless otherwise noted.

17 Live Music | 15 November — 15 December 2019

YOURA (TECHNO) 7 December at 19.00 Oleksandr Dovzhenko National Film Studio (Peremohy Pr 44) Youra is the solo project of influential Ukrainian music producer Yuri Bardash, aka the man behind the success of artists like Nerves, Mushrooms, Moon, and Quest Pistols. Post-divorce, Yuri adopted his new pseudonym, uploaded a rough ‘n’ ready demo on YouTube, and released his first mini-album, Predic- tor. His album, Plan B, surprised critics and fans alike with the brute force of its techno-rap sound and raging lyrics. This is a rare chance to get acquainted with one of the most mysterious forces on the music scene today. 650 UAH h2d.concerts

Ivan Dorn (pop, experimental) Thomas Mraz (RU, hip hop) Mono (JP, post rock) 17 November at 19.00 28 November at 20.00 2 December at 20.00 M83 (Mezhyhirska 83) Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) 600 UAH 400 UAH 500 UAH M82space Atlas37 Atlas37

Nervy (RU, punk, pop) Sinoptik (rock) Luna-Luna (rock-n-roll) 17 November at 19.00 30 November at 20.00 2 December at 20.00 Stereo Plaza (Lobanovskoho 119) Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) Blues Bar (Mykhailivska 24a) 700 UAH 300 UAH TBD stereoplaza caribbean.com.ua bluesbar.com.ua

Skillet (US, alternative) Petlia Pristrastia (RU, post-punk) Mika Chuev (country) 18 November at 19.00 19 November at 19.00 5 December at 20.00 Stereo Plaza (Lobanovskoho 119) Mezzanine (Nyzhnoiurkivska 31) Blues Bar (Mykhailivska 24a) 1250 UAH 350 UAH TBD stereoplaza mezzaninekyiv bluesbar.com.ua

Motanka (ethno metal) Jamala O.Torvald (pop punk) 21 November at 20.00 30 November at 19.00 5 December at 20.00 MonteRay Live Stage (Prorizna 8) International Centre of Culture and Arts Stereo Plaza (Lobanovskoho 119) 300 UAH (Heroyiv Nebesnoyi Sotni 1) 500 UAH monteray.kiev.ua 590 – 2 590 UAH stereoplaza concert.ua/uk/event/jamala Jazz Weekend 2019 Karna (folk rock) 21 – 23, 29 November 5 December at 20.00 Freedom Hall (Kyrylivska 134) Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) 25 – 75 UAH 390 UAH Jazz Weekend 2019 Atlas37

Zhadan and the Dogs (punk-rock) Tartak (hip hop) 22 November at 20.00 7 December at 19.00 Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) Caribbean club (Symona Petlyury 4) 350 UAH 400 UAH Atlas37 DAKHABRAKHA (FOLK) caribbean.com.ua 6 December at 20.00 Wildways (RU, metal) Palats Sportu (Sportyvna Pl 1) Fiolet (pop-rock) 11 December at 19.00 23 November at 20.00 After a spate of sellout gigs, DakhaBrakha Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) Bingo Club (Peremohy Pr 112) realised that the venues where they used to 300 UAH 400 UAH play were getting too small to accommodate Atlas37 wildwaystour.com their legions of fans. Now, after last year’s tours of the US and Europe, they’re back in Beth Hart (US, blues, jazz fusion) Komissiya (punk rock) Kyiv and upgrading to the somewhat room- 8 December at 19.00 23 November at 20.00 ier Palats Sportu. Guided by Vlad Troitskyi, Palats Ukraina (V Vasylkivska 103) River Port (Nyzhnii Val 67) director and mentor of the DAKH Theatre, 1 293 – 4 999 UAH 150 UAH the band’s debut in this space promises to be nationalpalaceukraine kontrabass.promo a multi-format, stereo-cultural celebration of Ukrainian and world music, performed with Brainstorm (LT, pop) Fever 333 (US, rapcore) their trademark chaotic spirit and riotous en- 12 December at 19.00 25 November at 20.00 erg y. Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) Atlas (Sichovykh Striltsiv 37-41) 390 UAH 890 UAH 890 UAH dakhabrakha Atlas37 caribbean.com.ua

18 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Sport/Cinema/Festivals | 15 November — 15 December 2019

WORLD HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIPS Kyiv Basket – Ukrainian 12 December at 20.00 SuperLeague Basketball vs Hungary 6 December @ 19.00 vs Khimik 14 December at 20.00 vs Poland 8 December @ 18.00 vs Odesa 15 December at 20.00 vs France 14 December @ 15.00 17 December at 20.00 vs Italy vs Cherkasy Mavpy 18 December at 20.00 vs Estonia Meridian Sports Complex (Heroiv Sevastopolya 11b) Palats Sportu (Sportyvna Pl 1) TBD Kyiv is set to host some of the finest junior kyiv-basket.com.ua ice hockey players in the world when the MYSTERIOUS JAPAN FESTIVAL city hosts the IIHF World Junior Ice Hock- Kyiv Ice Wolves – 1 November – 8 December ey Championships – Division 1B (third tier). Ukrainian Hockey League Open Thursday-Friday at 15.00-22.00, It’s been 15 years since Ukraine last played 24 November at 13.30 vs Bilyy Bars weekends 11.00-22.00 in the top tier of junior hockey and the team Shallett Arena (Mista Shallett 6) Samskara (8a Lvivska Pl) hopes to use home ice advantage to move up 30 – 60 UAH The Mysterious Japan Festival is the largest to the second tier for the first time since 2011. vovki.in.ua event of its kind in dedication to Japanese Look out for forward Ihor Shevchenko, who’s culture. Both floors of the Samskara art expected to lead the team after his breakout space will become portals to samurai bat- Ford vs Ferrari tournament last year, when the team finished tles, Tokyo fashion districts, Japanese gods 19 November at 19.00 fifth. With affordable tickets and entertain- and demons, masterpieces of art and digital Multiplex Lavina Mall, Skymall, Prospect, ment planned for both inside and outside of worlds. Join the speaking club, where, in just Komod, Atmosfera the arena, it’s the perfect family-friendly way five minutes, you’ll learn to be able to have From 95 UAH to kick off your holiday season. a short conversation in Japanese! Excursions, multiplex.ua 50 – 750 UAH master classes, and lectures from connois- fhu.com.ua seurs in love with Japanese culture will ensure New British Cinema you go away with a new appreciation for the 28 November – Mr. Jones far east, while the tea space will let you relax 29 November – Diego Maradona and develop a taste for the Orient. In addi- 30 November – Little Joe tion to the festival program, themed weeks 1 December – They Shall Not Grow Old will keep your interest piqued: Inland Japan: 2 December – Only You Culture, Art, Traditions (14-17 November), 3 December – Sorry, We Missed You Open Japan: Tourism, Business, Education 4 December – Little Joe (21-24 November), Pop Culture and Fashion Zhovten cinema (Kostyantynivska 26) (29 November – 1 December). zhovten-kino.kiev.ua 150 – 750 UAH Japan.kiev.ua Kinove Festival Dynamo Kyiv – Europa League 23-27 November Group Stage Football In cinemas: Zhovten, Kyivska Rus, ArtBratyslava 12 December at 19.55 vs Lugano From 120 UAH True Kurazh Sale 16 – 17 November Olympiyskyi Stadium (V Vasylkivka 55) KinoveUa 50 – 1000 UAH VDNH (Akademika Hlushkova 1) 100 UAH fcdynamo.kiev.ua Tuesday Evenings at Cinema Citi True Kurazh Sale Every Tuesday at 19.00 Dynamo Kyiv – Ukrainian Premier Cinema Citi (Ocean Plaza, Antonovycha 176) League Football 120 UAH BlackFest: Ukrainian Coffee Show 29 – 30 November 24 November at 17:00 vs Mariupol cinemaciti.ua CEC Parkovy (Parkova Doroha 16a) 7 December at TBD KinoveUa vs Zorya Luhansk 500 UAH Olympiyskyi Stadium (V Vasylkivka 55) BlackFest: Ukrainian Coffee Show 50 – 500 UAH fcdynamo.kiev.ua Event Decor Christmas Market 2019 30 November – 1 December FC Kolos – Ukrainian Premier Mayachok Event Hall (Liutneva 58a) League Football 200 UAH 24 November at 14.00 Event Decor Christmas Market 2019 vs Desna Chernihiv 7 December at 18.00 vs Dnipro-1 Kyiv Vibe City Obolon Arena (Pivnichna 26) 7 December at 14.00 10 – 20 UAH M82 (Mezhyhirska 82) koloskovalivka.com 549 – 799 UAH Kyiv Vibe City Kyiv Basket – FIBA Europe Cup 20 November at 19.00 Choco Fest 2019 vs Levski Lukoil (Bulgaria) 12 December at 14.00 Meridian Sports Complex (Heroiv Sevastopolya 11b) TBA TBD TBA kyiv-basket.com.ua Choco Fest 2019

19 What’s Ahead

FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH (US, HEAVY METAL) 14 January at 19.00 Palats Sportu (Sportyvna Square 1) Seeing these guys live brings a whole new perspective to what we consider a traditional rock concert. They grab fans` attention, hold it, and give them exactly NIGHT SKIING AT PROTASIV YAR what they want. 5FDP separates them- Saturdays and Sundays selves from other heavy-metal bands by from 22.30 – 4.00, starting in December this masterful connection with the crowd, Protasiv Yar Ski Complex (Protasiv Yar 2) their experimental music genre, and un- Looking for something interesting and forgettable stage antics. The band makes healthy to do over the holiday season? Why Ukraine a part of the Big European Win- not head out to Protasiv Yar – Kyiv’s only ter Tour 2020 with a powerful show. Get ski resort in the city centre. Located just a NEW YEAR, FULL VOLUME your tickets, just don’t forget your ear- 30-minute walk from Olympiyskiy metro 20 December at 23.00 plugs. station (2.2 km), the resort is home to four Volume Club (Harmatna 26/2) 890 – 6 990 UAH tracks serviced by two lifts, a snowboard Is it just us or would it be nice to have a fivefingerdeathpunch.com park, and a restaurant. As the base of the party to celebrate the that we survived Ukrainian Olympic Ski team, the resort another year? Not just a party, howev- stays open late on weekends giving you er, but something to give you that extra a cool way to experience the Ukrainian energy we all need so badly. The people capital. You can purchase an unlimited ski over at Cybernetic thought of that too pass from 22.30 – 04.00 for just 300 UAH and have put together an event to pro- (half-price if you show up after 2.00)* If vide that extra little boost – an evening you plan ahead, you can even arrange for of Drum and Bass with the best of the an instructor to show you a thing or too. best! Naum B2B Sova, Architect, Teddy When you get too tired or cold, warm up Killerz, and special guest – Prolix, here over at the on-site restaurant, which stays for the first time in Ukraine! So come, open until 05.00. For those who aren’t dance, and get ready to usher in not only night owls, there are daily and season pass- a new year but a new decade. es available too. From 400 UAH 300 UAH (*rates are based on last volumeconcertclub season’s price) gora.com.ua

GAPOCHKA (INDIE, ROCK) 17 December at 19.30 Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) Full of lyrics, old-school and post-punk mo- tifs, the newly-formed indie rock duo per- fectly combines controversial music genres. Since their first release in 2017, Katya and Yevhen have moved forward as a powerful union of daring guitar and tender vocals. The new album Neobkhidna is in line with the personal story of duo founder, Kat- ya Gapochka. Every single showcases her deep sense of self and unique ability to ex- perience all internal facets. This is a chance THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS to see the duo live and reflect on vivid and 19 December at 16.00 expressive music pieces that will surely reso- THE LION KING National Circus of Ukraine (Peremohy Pl 2) nate with everyone present. 29 December at 19.00 The New Year’s circus show – Journey 290 – 650 UAH Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) Through the Looking Glass, promises an gapochkamusic When New Year is knocking at your atmosphere of fun and fantasy. This is door, it is time to treat yourself to the a chance to spend time with your fami- beloved songs and set of Hakuna Mata- ly and observe an interpretation of this ta and get in a no-worries mood for the classic story by Lewis Carroll. The ad- upcoming celebration. This December, ventures of Alice in the magical world of Gospel Company UA is back to impress the Looking Glass will be fantastic enter- with their gospel take on the classic The tainment for you and your kids. The new Lion King soundtrack. You’ll no doubt show features professional gymnasts, ac- sing along to Circle of Life, Can You Feel robats, and clowns, all of whom will help the Love Tonight, and I Just Can’t Wait to viewers feel part of the action. Be King. 100 UAH 190 – 690 UAH circus.kiev.ua caribbean.com.ua

20 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Official importer of world’s major brands

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KYIV’S NEWEST HOTLINE — SAVING LIVES

after reading the report and recommenda- in each other. Speaking to someone who tions from his now Australian counterparts, has ‘been there done that’ helps lift some of it became clear to him, he says. “Someone the stigma surrounding mental health issues needed to take responsibility to make this particularly prevalent in Ukraine, especially happen… And I’m someone who cares when it comes to attitudes towards suicide. about this country.” BUILDING BLOCKS It was the evening of 14 October when a CHALLENGE ACCEPTED With the gears in motion, the next issue was veteran of the war in the Donbas region of It was a learning process for Niland. The to look at how to protect the psychological Ukraine picked up his phone and dialled Lifeline Australia experts, who analysed well-being of operators, Niland says. All ap- 7333. Four digits. Dialling 7333, put the vet- various issue-focused Ukrainian call-cen- plicants were tested for psychological resil- eran in touch with an operator based in the tres, presented three options to address the ience. If they passed, then a two-level system Lifeline Ukraine call-centre. The caller was veteran suicide problem: combine existing applies. For the majority of the crisis line’s a man who faced two choices; ask for help resources, take one existing call centre over, operators, a system of in-house psycholog- or carry on with the difficult thoughts in his and re-gear it to the issue at hand. Or start ical support was created for those fielding head. He chose the former. from the ground up. “We decided to start the often distressing calls. Shift managers from scratch,” Niland says. As he tells it, it are people with higher qualifications in psy- HOW IT ALL BEGAN chology, and are backed by a residential psy- The opening date of Lifeline Ukraine is no- chological consultant. What came as a nice table. It was also Defender’s Day in Ukraine, surprise to Niland was finding veterans who a date set aside to commemorate the service were also psychologists: “Of course”, he and sacrifice of those who have fought in says, “they were keen to join us!” the now five-year long conflict, orchestrated Funding was the next issue. A grant appli- by the Kremlin, in eastern Ukraine. While cation was lodged with the British Embassy it is honourable the Ukrainian government in Kyiv, in partnership with the East Europe set aside 14 October to mark the efforts of Foundation, under the combined project Ukrainian servicemen and women at the All4One. “We won the grant,” Niland says. frontline, critical gaps have been exposed for Lifeline Ukraine was awarded a grant to Know someone who needs help? veterans who have since returned home. It cover operational costs from the British Em- 7333 is the magic number. has been charities and volunteers that have bassy in Ukraine. plugged those gaps since the outset. One el- From there it was full tilt work, finding an ement that was not addressed was the high was the only way to build a nationwide 24/7 office, computers, installing call log software, rate of suicide among veterans. Until now. helpline for veterans in crisis or contemplat- and most importantly getting all mobile pro- It was a problem Dr Ulana Suprun, then ing suicide, citing the old adage ‘too many viders on board. At the time of writing that Ukraine’s Acting Minister of Health, iden- cooks spoil the broth’. last task is still ongoing, Niland says. Howev- tified early in the war. Put simply, Ukrainian That decision led to Niland agreeing to take er, he has managed to build his passion pro- armed forces veterans were committing su- the helm and work on creating what would ject “from scratch” and from that call on the icide at alarmingly high rates. It had to be eventually become Lifeline Ukraine. What first evening of operation he knew it would addressed, says Paul Niland, founder of the was crucial, Niland says, was to build a sup- succeed. “The day we could say we saved a veterans’ helpline. port structure utilising best world practice, life, that’s when I knew it was all worth it.” Dr Suprun invited experts from one of the which involved looking westward and study- leading suicide prevention organisations ing how other countries provided support to in the world, Lifeline Australia, to come to war veterans. Ukraine and consult on what was needed. The result was to adopt a peer-to-peer For more information on this unique for Ukraine An invitation was later extended to Niland principal – veterans supporting veterans – initiative, check out the links below. to get involved in the initiative. “I didn’t because they have a greater understanding lifelineukraine.com know what I was getting into,” he says. But of each other and a natural bond of trust LifelineUkraine

22 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 Ukraine Strengthens in Doing Business

On 23 October 2019 World Bank re- attention to development and enforce- hopefully, the situation will improve. leased its annual ranking Doing Busi- ment of the regulations that are typ- Another stress area is “Paying Taxes” ness 2020 which proved that economic ically considered to assess investment which is again time consuming (those environment in Ukraine becomes more attractiveness of the region. who fill and file tax declarations know attractive for investments: Ukraine Firstly, Ukraine needs to improve its for sure) and lacks tax administration climbed for 7 positions and ranks 64th regulations related to “Starting busi- efficiency. The total taxes may reach with 6 out of 10 key indicators improved. ness” since currently they are recog- 45.2% of profit, though, it should be nized as lengthy (takes 6 days min) and noted, that the VAT refund in Ukraine The most significant grow was reached over administrated with number of pro- is at par with leading EU economies. area “Protection of minority sharehold- cedures. Given the tendency for digital- ers’ rights” constituting +24 point. This isation generally adopted by the State Given Ukraine’s stable development increase is due to the implementing there is hope that starting business in and enforcement of business regulations legal requirement to disclose ultimate Ukraine will take just a couple of hours within last years the state authorities be- beneficial owners in transactions with if every procedure is made online. lieve Ukraine has all chances to hit TOP- interested parties. The second most 10 in Doing Business in next 3 years. strong increase was found in “Dealing Secondly, one of the main negative Doing Business rating evaluates ease with construction permits” (+10 points) aspects considered while investing in of business in 190 countries analysing for Ukraine making obtaining construc- Ukraine is its court system which is far existing internal regulations that en- tion permit less costly and streamlined: from being fair and impartial. This af- hance business activity and those that innovations include launch of online fected the criteria of “Enforcing Con- constrain it. notification system, elimination of the tracts in Ukraine” which proves that requirement to hire an external super- protecting your violated rights at court Marina Ryashchenko visor and reduction of the contribution will cost you time (378 days approx- Senior Associate at EVERLEGAL fee. The other areas strengthened by imately), money (at about 46.3% of Ukraine in 2019 are “Getting electric- claim value) and nerves wasted in court ity”, “Registering property”, “Getting and enforcement proceedings. How- credit”, “Trading across borders”. ever, the judicial reform is one of the However, Ukraine needs to pay more priorities for the new Government and,

23 What’s All the Fuss

THANK YOU, NEXT Over the span of a couple weeks I was an- swering unknown calls, responding to co- Natalya Jaddock pious messages and running here, there, and everywhere to meet with potential When my accumulated hours of teaching employers. I seemed to find enough work seemed to be on par with my accumulated for half of Kyiv, although none of these hours of riding the Kyiv metro, so began the employment opportunities I thought suit- tedious task of searching for new work. I set able for myself. off with a goal in mind: to minimise com- As time went on, I started to wonder if mute time and get all of my working hours spending half my working day on the in one place. Well, I climbed the mountain, metro was really so bad – but the voice made it to the other side, just to realise I’m inside my head said, “You’re in too deep only a few feet from where I initially started. to turn back now”. The voice was right – I was deep into the job search and if WHERE TO BEGIN? I didn’t take an offer soon, I was afraid The Internet is a labyrinth of job postings, I might never get out. With this fear in comprised of everything on the spectrum my mind, potential offers appeared more wo outlander wo Working from good to bad. I sat myself in front of the desirable and I signed two new contracts. computer with multiple job search tabs open, it Out growing more overwhelmed by the second. TRUST YOUR GUT After successfully managing to upload my re- The goal I was trying to accomplish sume onto one of the sites, I felt an inkling of with finding new work has not been met. accomplishment. Although I was pleased to Kyiv is not necessarily conducive to just interrupt my search as my Ukrainian friend stumbling upon one’s dream job, and I’m invited me to go for tea. One mention of the okay with that. In the end, it’s worked out word “job” and I found myself vertical and to four average jobs, and in some way, making a B-line for the door with a belly full shape, or form, when you dot the i’s and of a leafy infusion to drop more resumes in carry the ones, I’m sure it is equivalent to inboxes and creating a Skype account. one great job.

ing crew,” says Olesov. “We were filming in snow-covered fields and remote villages. Norton, wrapped in an old Soviet-style coat, would have to wade through snowdrifts or sit on a tree branch for several hours during the frosty night. Yet, it looks so true-to-fact on the screen. Holland says the snow and cold give some kind of nightmarish quality and creates silence. Mr Jones, or The Price of Truth in Ukrainian, The Price of Truth will hit national theatres starting 28 Novem- ber. On this day, Holland will come to Kyiv Anna Azarova dark side of the global system. It centres on to present the movie at the opening of the a strong individual determined to follow the New British Film Festival. It will be screened “I walked through villages and twelve collec- truth wherever it may lead.” in cinemas worldwide. Olesov adds: “We tive farms. Everywhere was the cry, ‘There is Earlier this year, Mr Jones premiered at the still live in a world inundated with fake news. no bread. We are dying…’” Berlinale and clocked up both positive and Still, those in power set their own profit and negative reviews, leaving no room for in- ambition above human life. This concerns These words are taken from a report pub- difference. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian each country.” lished in the western press, including the called it “a bold and heartfelt movie” and “a Manchester Guardian and the New York Evening picture with sinew and strength”. In Septem- Gareth Jones, whose visit to fam- Post, back in 1933. The author, 27-year-old ber, the film secured the prestigious Grand what’s screening what’s ine-ravaged Ukraine allegedly in- Welsh journalist Gareth Jones, travelled to Prix Golden Lions award at Poland’s Gdynia spired Orwell’s Animal Farm, was the Soviet Union to make a macabre discov- Film Festival. murdered under murky circumstanc- ery and break the news about Holodomor Actor James Norton, who stars as Jones, rec- es in Japanese-occupied Manchuria – the terrible famine that killed millions of ollects: “It was a great honour to tell a story in 1935. Ukrainians. which is so important to this country… I felt The story of the courageous journalist un- a bit like Gareth would have felt, arriving ravels in Mr. Jones, a biopic drama directed somewhere which isn’t his country and see- by Agnieszka Holland and co-produced by ing this.” Check Ukraine, Poland and the UK. Egor Olesov, The film was shot on location in Ukraine out the Ukrainian co-producer, explains: “The in March 2018, with filming taking place trailer movie goes beyond the Holodomor agenda. in Chernihiv and Kharkiv. “The biting cold It is all about genuine humanism and the weather was a major challenge for the shoot-

24 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 In 2017, the group won the national se- true to the beat, the music is a return to lection for Eurovision, which, as the lead the origins of rock and roll. The second vocalist later said, was accidental. part is a deep breath and exhale. It is It is no secret that, because the compe- lighter, a mixture of drive and buzz. tition is broadcasted on television, the Diller Kaifu by genre is alternative rock Ukrainian stage of selection is often used with powerful riffs and melodies and mix- by performers to show their music to a very tures of electronic music, but it sounds wide audience. O.Torvald was of course much meaner, more powerful, heavier. aware of the potential and opted in. Their Probably because all the emotions of this poor showing at Eurovision, however (the difficult period found a way through the group ended up in 24th place), attracted creative process and out into the songs. criticism, which also, affected their album With this album, O.Torvald could safely Bisaidy released only months later. claim to the title of the country’s main As audiences’ initial love for the local rock band. They are rockers singing Diller Kaifu rockers diminished, while conflicts within about the serious things Ukraine is facing. the group itself were on the rise, O.Tor- by O.Torvald vald announced it was time for a break. Many assumed this was it. Then along O.Torvald Lera Zdanevych came Hebi. With a new drummer and 5 December at 20.00 new enthusiasm injected into the Poltava Stereo Plaza (Lobanovskoho 119) O.Torvald has released a long-awaited natives, a new album has appeared, with 500 – 750 UAH new album for their fans. In fact two of their first singles promising a loud return.  stereoplaza release new best them at once! The fresh recording con- “The new album is a revolution of char- sists of two conceptual parts, which differ acter, a protest against the parades of in form and vibe. Each part consists of lies and delirium, at the same time, it is eight songs. But before you start to read sincerity of the soul and openness of the about the release itself, you need to know heart,” says the group. Check out what’s happened to the group over these Creating the album in two parts, the first the album past two years. part of Diller Kaifu is a scream. Staying

The Art of Queue-Cutting

Lee Reaney

As Ukraine continues its path towards Although Ukrainians are making strides cian sliding a playing card back into his Europe, it gets harder and harder to find toward more European queueing norms – deck. Sporting events and concert queues those little Soviet-style quirks that make banks are beginning to use ticketed num- are where the most nefarious queue-cut- life in this country so unique. But if you bers and marshrutka lines proceed with ters come out to play. You’ll be able to want a truly Soviet experience, why don’t relative order – the more important the play the time-honoured game of ‘spot the you just queue? appointment, the more Soviet the queue. foreigner’ by looking for those about to Ever been in line to get an official docu- lose their minds... Of course, these hard- Queuing in the Soviet Union is the stuff ment? Hoping to see a doctor in a state to-shake habits also spill over to driving. of lore. Ukrainians fondly relate that the hospital? Or waiting to buy your ticket 10 Many an accident has been caused by biggest road catastrophe in the USSR minutes before your train departs? That’s someone looking just a little too aggres- was when the Kyiv queue crashed into exactly when the Soviet queue comes to sively to cut in line. the Moscow queue. life! From the offensively false “it’ll just Your sense of honour when it comes to If you’ve ever wondered how many ba- take 10 seconds” to the always-handy “I queue-cutting will surely be put to the test bushkas it would take to cut in line before was here already” to the heart-wrench- in Ukraine. But remember – our hosts you start throwing elbows, well – this is ing “my babushka is waiting outside”, honed their craft back in the days when the place for you. I got to nine, for the Ukrainians have made queue-cutting into there just wasn’t enough toilet paper to go record. And while I tell that story 20 years an art form. around. So, you can either sit back and later, I’m sure those grannies still have A personal favourite is the old slip-into- enjoy the shenanigans, or you can go lo- goodbye lenin goodbye fond recollections of the potatoes they the-line-unnoticed trick. These masters cal by getting your elbows up. fought me for. of subterfuge slip into lines like a magi- Happy queueing!

25 What’s All the Fuss

VINEGAR AND ALCOHOL Doctors in UA RUBDOWNS ARE A GREAT Only 38% of Tassy Klim ANTIPYRETIC Ukrainians visited the If you have a fever, do NOT try to doctor in 2016! No, it’s not a new superhero franchise (but maybe marinade yourself in vinegar – not someone should pitch the idea to Hollywood?) only will it do little to reduce your out and making it prone to breakage. As temperature, it will not endear you to any- a general rule, the thicker your hair, the Living in Ukraine, where so much of our one in the same room. Better to rest, drink less frequently you need to wash it. Many collective medical knowledge is based upon plenty of water and consult your doctor if stylists advise leaving your hair as long as myths and old wives’ tales, it can be hard to your fever lasts longer than three days. We you feel comfortable between washes – you figure out what’s fact and what’s fiction. But know this news might upset your babushka, might even notice some improvement in @sviy.doc, a newly launched Instagram ac- so make sure she’s sitting down before you the quality of your luscious locks. count, is here to educate, and make medicine break it to her. fun while they’re at it. Below is a few of our ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP IS MORE top picks of debunked, myths to save us all IMMUNE SUPPORT PILLS ARE THE EFFECTIVE THAN REGULAR SOAP from feeling like fools at the next doctor’s ap- HEALTH PROFESSION’S SILVER BULLET There is not enough proof that products pointment! Immune system booster supplements con- claiming to have ‘antibacterial’ properties tain a combination of antioxidants, vi- are any better at preventing illness than wo mythbusters wo PREGNANCY IS A MAGICAL CURE- tamins, electrolytes, herbs, and minerals plain old soap and water. In fact, some of ALL FOR YOUR MEDICAL CONDITION thought to help support a healthy immune the chemicals in these products can have a If you’ve ever suffered from ‘womens’ prob- system. While anecdotal success stories negative effect. Studies show that Triclosan, lems’, you might have heard your Ukrain- abound, these supplements have not been an antibacterial agent found in these soaps, ian friends utter this mysterious phrase proven to prevent colds, the flu, or any oth- could be making bacteria resistant to an- – ‘just have a baby and it will go away’. er illness. While we all need our vitamins, tibiotics. Its use as a pesticide raises envi- Confused? There is a myth in Ukraine that your doctor can give you a much better idea ronmental concerns and the potential risks pregnancy can cure various conditions, of where your deficiencies are and which of long-term exposure are not known. So such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endo- supplements you should be taking. grab that simple soap and clean up! metriosis, uterine fibroids, and even breast cancer. The reality is that pregnancy – just RINSE AND REPEAT like any hormonal treatment – may tem- Just like you, your hair is unique. Stylists and 37% of people believe that the medical porarily suppress the symptoms of some dermatologists say there’s no single answer reforms happening in Ukraine have had to the question of how often you should of these problems, but of course does not a negative effect, while 32% haven’t eradicate the root cause. It goes without shampoo but you might be doing it more saying that an unwanted pregnancy to cure often than you need. Washing too often can noticed any difference. your ailments is a terrible idea… strip the natural oils in your hair, drying it (Stats according to sociological company ratinggroup.ua)

can pull off a performance of this magnitude, territory taken along the Black Sea, meaning already tackling Elizabeth I and Elizabeth II with the wresting of southern Ukraine from in an Oscar winning turn. This ramps things the Turks, new cities, Odesa, Mykolaiv, Yeka- up a little from the dour and dutiful Liz’s, terinoslav (translated as the ‘Glory of Cath- and Mirren, who was also an executive pro- erine’ now modern Dnipro), and Kherson ducer on the four-part series, is at the centre were founded. Some of these are mentioned of a lavish costume drama with all the bawd- in passing in the miniseries before the action iness, bodice-ripping, and bed-hopping you turns to Crimea. expect from the genre, with a string of young The Russo-Turk War ended in a treaty in Catherine and Crimea men eager to please the empress. However, 1783 and Catherine the Great annexed the you can add conspiracy, politics, and carnage Crimean Peninsula roughly 250 years before Jared Morgan all in the name of Mother Russia to the sex. Russian president Vladimir Putin did the As the show depicts, Grigory Potemkin same thing. Potemkin, as depicted, oversaw Hot on the heels of Chornobyl is Sky Atlantic (played by Jason Clarke), Catherine’s favour- the establishment of Sevastopil and is de- and HBO’s Catherine the Great, the latest pro- ite lover (she is said to have had up to 12 oth- picted as outlining his grand plan for the city duction to focus on this part of the world. ers) and second-in-command, engineered ahead of Catherine visiting and travelling in As well as dispelling some myths (spoiler: land grabs and the expansion of the empire. a grand flotilla to look at the new city and the wo history buff wo she did not die copulating with a stallion, For those with an interest in Ukraine’s com- freshly conquered land. although she did have a veracious sexual ap- plex history, Catherine played a huge role in It is a crash course in some fascinating as- petite). She was one of the longest reigning the establishment of Ukraine as we know it pects of the history of this part of the world, female monarchs in history, built an empire, today. The show also sheds some light on one that leaves you trapped in a Wikipedia loop and was the last female to rule all of Russia, some hotly sought-after real estate, Crimea. afterwards if you want to know more. Or due to her semi-estranged son and heir who you can just bask in watching a portrayal of decreeing a woman would never be allowed UKRAINIAN LINKS a woman who knew what she wanted and to rule again. The German-born Catherine died of a took it, in and out of the bedchamber. stroke (not by stallion) after a 32-year reign SUMPTUOUS AFFAIR aged 67 in 1796 and the series focuses on the Catherine the Great premiered 3 October on Sky Dame Helen Mirren plays the titular Cath- final years of her reign. A large part of the Atlantic in the UK, and 21 October on HBO in erine the Great in a commanding perfor- action is devoted to the Russo-Turkish War the US, and is available for streaming officially mance; there is no doubt this is a Dame who which progressively led to more and more (or unofficially if you know where to look).

26 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 27th IWCK Charity Bazaar November 30th, 2019, NSC Olimpiyskiy 55, Velyka Vasylkivs’ka St, Kyiv

• 90 UAH - Adults ticket at exclusive online presale price (Nov 1 - Nov 29). • 20 UAH - Pensioners, students, children 12 -18 years old. • FREE of charge - Children under 12 years, ATO veterans and people with disabilities. A document confirming your right to a discount is required. • 120 UAH - The adult ticket price if purchased on the day of the Bazaar November, 30th. Please buy tickets only from official vendors: online sale www.studydive.com or by the cash table at the entrance of the event. 100% of 27th Charity Bazaar proceeds goes to charity.

ANNUAL ON THE PROGRAM: FUNDRAISING DINNER COCKTAILS AND SILENT AUCTION AUCTION IN SUPPORT OF THE FESTIVE DINNER UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT

MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT OKSANA MUKHA MASTER OF CEREMONIES / / VOLODYMYR 14 12 2019 OSTAPCHUK СЕС “PARKOVY” Admission to dinner, Kyiv, Parkova Road, 16-а cocktails and auction preview +38 096 963 39 88 +38 096 515 37 28 UAH 6 500 [email protected] supporting.ucu.edu.ua Cuisine in the Clouds Lana Nicole Niland The main course is mentally problematic for me – tongue, and not from just anywhere, KAMA TRIES TO TAKE from little baby lambs. I will always try some- GASTRONOMIC PLEASURE TO A thing once however, and served in a black NEW LEVEL. DO THEY SUCCEED? pepper sauce, I find it is soft like a grilled fois gras, and just as delicate. Breaking off a piece of the fresh coriander, I include a small From the top of the Riviera House, despite leaf with each bite and my mind is blown. the persistent fog maintaining an eerie yet Once over the initial psychology, I actually consoling blanket upon the city, a magnif- enjoy it. The sweet potato that accompanies icent view is had. Kyiv’s newest pan-Asian is more trendy than tasty, however. gastro-hub, Kama, looks to offer “aesthetic We finish up the epicurean tour with cold enjoyment” to its guests. Myself, along with style sauce reminds me of a 5-star pulled coconut mousse with mango and blueberry. the rest of The Ukrainian Connoisseurs pork recipe, and coupled with the pickle and This is not mousse in the traditional sense. Club (TUCC), are going to find out just how red jalapeno – all I can say is muah! The It is however very creamy and very good, well the venue lives up to its Sanskrit name. vegetable option, while good, doesn’t com- with real pieces of fruit placed delicately pare. Though, if you were to ask the other atop the velvety mixture. The wine pairing MUAH women at my table you’d get a different an- I’m not sure about – it’s an Asti Spumante la The initial impression is one of awe. Exiting swer. The wine on the other hand I cannot Selvatica la Caudrina, which makes for a lot the lift, you are immediately met with a view of sweet in one sitting. It seems to go down that continues to get exponentially better – well with the local women however, many both inside and out. TUCC members are of whom I know have more than one sweet decked out in their finest, and with a glass of tooth, so they are happy. prosecco to start, it’s not a bad way to recon- Throughout the evening, I am awed by the nect with friends new and old. architecture of the venue, with a bar that Called to the table, the first course is must be at least three storeys high. The served in grand style – langoustine pop- grandeur of the place is in keeping with corn with tomato shiso sauce. I could eat the 5-star lifestyle so many here in Kyiv this all day – nice, light, with a hint of enjoy. Is to everyone’s tastes? Maybe not. spice. Delicately fried with a sprig of rose- What is interesting however is that chef mary to add an unmistakable aromatic Dmytriy Poltavets, who at a mere 23-years WO EDIBLE INVENTORY twist, the sweetness of the Gewurztramin- old, is creating cuisine at a level not typi- • Gewurztraminer medaille hunawihr er it is paired with makes for a wonderful cally seen at his age, which makes a visit, at • Langoustine popcorn with tomato shiso taste combination. least once, a must. Next up – bruschetta. One of beef ribs with sauce cucumbers and another of baked bell pep- • Bolgheri Viticcio per, avocado, mushrooms, and verde sauce. • Beef ribs bruschetta with cucumbers The former has been cooking a la sous-vide and vegetable bruschetta with baked bell for 15 hours making the meat so tender you pepper, avocado, mushrooms, could feed it to a baby. The beautiful BBQ- and verde sauce • Benuara Cusumano • Lamb tongues with black pepper and baked sweet potato • Asti Spumante la Selvatica la Caudrina • Cold coconut mousse with mango and blueberry Kama Sahaidachnoho 15 fault. Bolgheri Viticcio, with notes of forest ¾ 12.00 – 23.00 fungi, is a complex potion. Though taste kama.kyiv structure may not be for all, my suggestion would be to give it a few minutes – this wine WHAT’S ON CHECKLIST does well with O2 and gets better the longe MAKE SURE YOU TRY: it’s left to breathe. English Menu ü Langostino tartar with black English-speaking staff ü truffle and guacamole 410 UAH FINISHING NOTES Wi-fi ü Duck filet with apricot The third wine, another Italian – Benuara Price $ $ $ $ and radish teriyaki 410 UAH Cusumano, is less full-bodied, making way WO Rating Super Matcha Cake 340 UAH for what is meant to be star of the evening. TUCC Rating

28 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 CONTRABANDO – A VENUE DESCRIBED AS “FOOD AND WINE”. BUT, ON THE CONTRARY, IS MUCH MORE Paul Niland On the Contrary…

Set in central Kyiv, a stone’s throw from VARIOUS DELICACIES Shevchenko Park, Contrabando has only As a slow-cooked meat, the test of a recently opened. Having already managed good ossobuco is can you fork it? In this to generate significant support, with locals case, yes, it is quite forkable, and as such enjoying the as yet unseasonably warm no knife is necessary. The warm chicken weather at the tables outside, we take a seat liver salad too passes the test and is being inside, incognito. consumed with the approving noises. It AT THE SAME TIME is “the poor man’s (Ed: woman’s?) foie There’s an eclectic mix of art juxtaposed gras”, which, I am told, is a great com- against the unmatched but rather nice pliment to this humble bit of chicken. At modern bare wood tabletops and grey up- the end of the day, part of the ossobuco EDIBLE INVENTORY holstery of the chairs and sofas. The music Bruschetta with Veal Tartare 149 UAH starts to draw our attention after the aesthet- Cheese Soup with Camembert 95 UAH ic appraisal – it’s the kind of thing you’d find Ossobuco with mushed at a pre-party venue. It shouldn’t work, these [sic] potatoes 255 UAH four different styles, but it all seems to gel. Warm Chicken Liver Salad 159 UAH The sense of calm is enhanced as we receive Chardonnay Santa Rita x2 99 UAH the menus. With a rather uncomplicated se- Shiraz Meal Matchers 99 UAH lection, it’s decided that bruschetta with veal Pinotage Man 99 UAH and cheese soup with Camembert will start us off, with a warm chicken liver salad and TOTAL: 1 024 UAH ossobuco steak with mushed [sic] potatoes to THE WO CHECKLIST: follow. With a decent by-the-glass selection English Menu ü of wine on offer, a Chilean chardonnay and English-speaking staff ü Australian shiraz are requested as soon as possible – it’s been a long day. Wi-fi  A word, however, about the way the or- Price $ $ der is taken needs to be included. The WO Rating venue is busy, and our server, who is, to be honest, short on smiles this evening, states goes uneaten because I am beaten by the that the food will come out “as ready” (по size. None of the salad is left, and the готовності). Not unique to this venue, the bowl it came in is empty of everything practice generally should be banned every- MAKE SURE YOU TRY: but air. where. The correct order is that the starters Sunday Brunch, which includes On our way out the door, we get a tour of – whether hot or cold – are all delivered to a bottle of house wine just 660 UAH the front hall which is also a shop. Here the table at the same time. And then, after Daily lunch menu (something new every day): they sell various delicacies, including an appropriate pause, the mains are deliv- soup of the day 69 UAH, dish of the day wines both international and local. The ered to the dining group, at, the, same, time. 125 UAH, or 175 UAH for them both, option to buy a bottle to enjoy with your meal is also there. Checking out the selec- NO REFUNDS including coffee or lemonade tion, Gavrilenko insists on opening a bot- Setting aside the order and pace at which tle of rather nice Ukrainian wine to try. everything shows up, the veal tartare brus- a couple more glasses of wine, which are Don’t mind if we do. chetta, while simple, is simply excellent. pleasant and (at 99 UAH are) good value, There is nothing contrary about this It is a good hearty portion, and the finely there is time to reflect on the venue’s buzz. place at all. chopped meat is well seasoned and comple- It is a happy place, where the slogan “this mented by the herby crust it is ensconced day cannot be exchanged or refunded” in. The cheese soup, I am informed, is floats by every now and then as featured Contrabando Food & Wine “like a drug” – it is that good. Combining a on the T-shirt of one of the staff. Only lat- Antonovycha 14a number of cheeses, including blue cheese – er it is learned that this is the owner – Oleg ¾ Sunday-Thursday 11.00-23.00, which is not to everyone’s taste – blue cheese Gavrilenko, a character who has been on ¾ Friday-Saturday 11.00-00.00 fans can get their fix on this dish. the Kyiv bar and restaurant scene for quite +380 93 139 5361 Following the initial gastronomic event and a long time. contrabando-food-wine.business.site

29 What’s In Focus

A GOULISHLY GOOD TIME While business objectives are first and foremost, the Amer- ican Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine is no stranger to fun too. Inviting members to an evening of cocktails from the cauldron, ghouls and mummies, witches, zombies, and skeletons arrived in full regalia on 30 October to In- Light Studio. Pumpkin-carv- ing and prizes for the best costume ensured an evening participants won’t soon forget.

CANADA, EH? There was big fun to be had at the big bar of the recently-ren- ovated Canadian Club on 8 November. More than one hun- dred expats and business professionals turned out to enjoy the evening organised by social community The Big Meet. Join the next event on 8 December and get in on the fun.

30 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019 WHERE DREAMS ARE BORN A new exhibition by Alla Vo- lobyeva opened on 7 Novem- ber at Triptych Global Arts Workshop. Aromatic green tea, exotic plants, antiques, Oriental statuettes, an electric guitar, her beloved Labrador Heavy… what unites them all? Each one is a source of in- spiration for the artist, whose private world unfolds in this series of little revelations – Where Dreams are Born. The exhibition will disappear just as quickly as it emerged, so make sure you get into the gal- lery before 20 November.

FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY The Ukrainian capital is certainly not devoid of attractions, however there is one new event you are sure not to want to miss. The only catch – you have to be +21. The Royal Variety Show was un- veiled on 25 October at one of Kyiv’s best concert halls/nightclubs – Carib- bean Club. A provocative performance in every way, the piano, live vocals, and colourful costumes are what really bring the show to life. TNMK’s Oleh “Fagot” Mikhayluta, Monatik, and of course the show’s choreographers/di- rectors – Ekaterina Trishyna and Anna Palamarchuk were in the audience on the evening of the premiere.

31 What’s In Focus

WE REMEMBER On 11 November is the official memorial day of the Commonwealth countries to commem- orate those who have died in the line of duty. Celebrated since the end of WWI, when hos- tilities formally ended at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, members of the diplomatic community and those wishing to pay their respects did so during a service at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

SIPPING FOR A GOOD CAUSE On the occasion of World Polio Day, the Kyiv Multinational Rotary Club organised its second annual wine tasting on 25 October at Shy- nok. Guests had the chance to enjoy the wine of Zakarpattia, from wineries Keys Wine and Chateau Chizay, following a a glass of sparkling wine to kick off the evening from Artemivsk. All monies were transferred to the Rotary Founda- tion, in order to help their international cause to End Polio. The eradication of polio is one of its longest-standing and most significant efforts of the club, and along with their partners, Rotary has helped immunise more than 2.5 billion chil- dren against polio in 122 countries.

32 What’s On Issue 27 15 November - 15 December 2019

Sector H Sector K Sector M Kyiv Paris (Sichovykh Striltsiv 10) Shlyapa (Antonovycha 14) Frat Social Club (Evgena Konovaltsya 36d) Like A Local Wine Bar (Sichovykh Striltsiv 26) Perfe (Antonovycha 14а) La Casa Del Habano (Klovskiy Descent 13) Reni (Sichovykh Striltsiv 60) Holiday Inn hotel (Antonovycha 79 ) Almondo Night Party Bar (Lesi Ukrainky Normal (Antonovycha 81 ) bulv. 34) Sector J Kyiv President (Hospitalna 12) O' cafe (Mechnykova 9) Alphavito (Predslavynska 35d) Rus (Hospitalna 4) Si (Mechnykova 9) Lounge bar Mantry (V Vasylkivska 5 ) Belle Vue Belgian Beer Cafe (Saksahanskogo 7) Lucky Pub (V Vasylkivska 13) Yabloko (Saksaganskoho 39/41) Sector N Under Wonder (V Vasylkivska 21 ) Dos Amigos (Saksaganskoho 51/87) LKafa (Chokolivskiy bulvar 11) Tolstoy (V Vasylkivska 19) Sam’s Steak House (Zhylyanska 37) Cosmopolite hotel (Vadyma Getmana 6) Bierstube (V Vasylkivska 20 ) Steak House Goodman (Zhylyanska 75) IQ Hotel (Vadyma Getmana 6) Mama Manana (V Vasylkivska 44) Alfaro (V Vasylkivska 49) Sector L Druzi Cafe (V Vasylkivska 49а) Guramma (Dniprovskiy Descent 1) Rooster Grill Bar (V Vasylkivska 68) Park Cafe (Mazepy 11а) Manu (V Vasylkivska 94) Shooters (Moskovska 22) Amster Damster (V Vasylkivska 111/113) Veranda na Dnipri (Naberezhne shose 11a) 17.804 (V Vasylkivska 82)

Sector E Sector G Fairmont (Naberezhno Hreshchatytska 1а) Outpub (Dmytrivska 18/24) Druzi Café (Andriivskiy Descent 2d) Savazh Closer cafe (Nyzhnioyurkivska 31) Belmondo (Hogolivska 17) Kanapa (Andriivskiy Descent 19а) Barcode (Nyzhniy Val 17) Varva (Saksaganskoho 108/16) Kanapka Bar (Andriivskiy Descent 30а) Call Me Cacao (Nyzhniy Val 35) Caribbean Club (Symona Petlyury 4) De Pari (Andriivskiy Descent 34v) To be (Verhniy Val 2а) La Vaca Tapas (Symona Petlyury 6) Radisson Blu (Bratska 17/19 ) Habana (Verhniy Val 24) Ibis (Polzunova 6) Piano Café (Kontraktova Ploshcha 4) Lubchik (Vozdvyzhenska 10b) Freedom Club Event Hall (Kyrylivska 134) Ohota Na Ovets (Vozdvyzhenska 10b) Sector F Lumberjack barbershop (Nyzhniy Val 15) RybaLove (Vozdvyzhenska 21-23) O’Brien’s Irish Pub (Myhailivska 17) Bar Dom (Sagaidachnoho 10/5а) Vozdnyzhensky (Vozdvyzhenska 60) Hyatt (Tarasovoyi 5) Riviera (Sagaidachnoho 15) Deficit (Yaroslaviv Val 9) Pauz Cafe (Sofiivska 5) Impresa (Sagaidachnoho 21) Radisson (Yaroslaviv Val 24) Whisky Corner (Sofiivska 16/16) Tike (Sagaidachnoho 31) Paul (Yaroslaviv Val 26) Knyazhyi Grad (V Zhytomyrska 2) Tarantino Grill & Wine Bar Golden Gate (Yaroslaviv Val 33v) InterContinental (V Zhytomyrska 2а) (Sagaidachnoho 35) Ptaha (Ihorivska 5) Urban Grill (Horyva 25/12) Art of Shkolnyi the Map: Dmytro Where to find What’s On

Sector A Sector B Sector C Smorrebrod (Horodetskogo 4) Biancoro (Baseina 4) Ikra (Honchara 67) Vatra (Horodetskogo 4b) Porto Franco (Baseina 4 ) Naturlikh (Hmelnytskoho 3) Fellini (Horodetskogo 5) Traktyr na Baseyniy (Baseina 2) Ink (Hmelnytskoho 17/52 ) Chaikof (Horodetskogo 8/4) Beer House (Baseina 2а) 7 pyatnyc’ (Hmelnytskoho 29/2) Public Cafe (Khreshchatyk 1/2) Bar Sklad (Besarabska Ploshcha 2) Opera (Hmelnytskoho 53 ) Dnipro (Khreshchatyk 1/2) Aloft (Esplanadna 17) City Hotel (Hmelnytskoho 56) Chiken Kyiv (Khreshchatyk 15) Babai Bar (Pushkinska 2) Pantagruel (Lysenka 1) Mocco (Khreshchatyk 15) Gastro Bar #7 (Pushkinska 9а) Spotykach (Volodymyrska 16) Dom Kofe Passage (Khreshchatyk 15) Ko & Ko bar (Pushkinska 11) Fish market (Volodymyrska 24a) La Forchetta (Khreshchatyk 16) ProRock (Pushkinska 32) Lemonade (Volodymyrska 29) Bochka (Khreshchatyk 19а) Antwerpen (Pushkinska 38) Le Cosmopolite (Volodymyrska 47) Moon Lounge Bar (Khreshchatyk 24) Podshoffe Brasserie (Pushkinska 45/2) Barkas (Volodymyrska 49а) Shato (Khreshchatyk 24a) Terracotta (Shevchenka bulv. 57/29) Golden Gate (Zolotovoritska 15) Hangover (Hrushevskogo 3) Premiere Palace (Shevchenka bulv. 57/29) Pache (Kostyolna 3) Hinkalli (Shota Rustaveli 4) Sector D Tres Francais (Kostyolna 3) Beef (Shota Rustaveli 11) Hedonist bar & kitchen (Antonovycha 4) Druzi Cafe (Prorizna 3/5) Alchemist Bar (Shota Rustaveli 12) Ibis (Shevchenka bulv. 25) Baraban (Prorizna 4а) De Bosch (Shota Rustaveli 12) Hilton (Shevchenka bulv. 30) Sunduk Pub (Prorizna 22) Maral bar (Shota Rustaveli 15а) Chachapuri (Shevchenka bulv. 36а) Senator Maidan (Shevchenka ave 8v) Cafe L’ etage (Shota Rustaveli 16) Mario (Lva Tolstoho 14) Like A Local Wine Bar (Lva Tolstoho 5) Dusha Espresso Bar (Lva Tolstoho 39) Velur (Lva Tolstoho 41)