The annual modern art festival Gogolfest kicked off at Platforma Art Zavod on Sept. 16.
During the next week, attendees can see performances by Ukrainian and international theatres, listen to Ukrainian pop bands, and walk along the various artwork exhibitions located on the large territory of Platforma.
The must-see event of this year’s Gogolfest is the newest performance of Ukrainian band DakhaBrakha, known for its freak-style shows and modern adaptation of folk-themed tunes.
DakhaBrakha presented part of their new art performance – entitled “Babylon” – at the festival’s Sept. 16 opening. The arrangement combines spectacular gymnastic feats by circus acrobats, impressive opera singing and hypnotizing songs accompanied by a mad theatre performance by DakhaBrakha’s main musicians.
The play attempts to unite contradicting art styles in one piece, as in the Biblical narrative about Tower of Babel, where different nations lived together and spoke one language before God confounded their speech so that they could no longer understand each other.
The premiere of the full play is scheduled for Sept. 22.
Those who prefer pop music can enjoy the performances of Ukrainian bands like BoomBox, Vivienne Mort, The Erised, Aloise at the Atlas Stage at Platforma (additional payment for a ticket is required). The festival also features several concerts of academic contemporary music played with classical instruments in the basement of an old factory.
One can also listen to lectures about modern art or attend master-classes by famous Ukrainian artists during Gogolfest’s education panels.
Lovers of modern dance can watch routines and dance performances by young Ukrainian choreographers. Visitors can also see the contemporary Japanese dance Butoh, a variety of theatre that encompasses a diverse range of activities and techniques. Moreover, for families with children, Lithuanian dance theatre Dansema will hold their amusing show “Colour games” over the weekend.
Some of the performances need additional tickets that can be bought online at consert.ua and kasa.in.ua.
One can also find various street food options at the large food court or choose a stylish outfit at the market of Ukrainian clothing and accessories brands.
For the detailed program visit www.gogolfest.org.ua.
