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Ukraine war backlash as Russian National Ballet's visit to Chatham's Central Theatre is dropped

A performance by the Russian National Ballet at Chatham's Central Theatre has been cancelled in the wake of the war against Ukraine.

Swan Lake was due to be staged at the High Street venue on Sunday, November 13.

The news was announced on the council's Medway Tickets website (55575984)
The news was announced on the council's Medway Tickets website (55575984)

But a statement from the box office team today said: "It is with great sadness that, in light of recent global events, we must announce that Amande Concerts will no longer be touring the Russian Ballet in the UK this autumn.

"We will be issuing automatic refunds over the next couple of days to all bookers of this performance.

"You do not need to contact us to receive your refund."

The UK-based production company, which has come under fire after dozens of its Russian State Opera shows were cancelled, has distanced itself from the country and pledged its support for Ukraine.

Amande Concerts previously operated under the brand name which it said “acts as an umbrella for the presentation of artists of many different nationalities that have graduated from artistic institutions in Russia”.

Hidden Medway: The Central Theatre, Chatham. Picture: Chris Davey. (6749836)
Hidden Medway: The Central Theatre, Chatham. Picture: Chris Davey. (6749836)

It has taken the decision to drop the branding after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, despite insisting there is no link between Amande Concerts and the Russian ‘state’ as a political entity.

The group does not receive any public or commercial money from Russian organisations.

It comes after venues across the UK cancelled performances by the company in solidarity with Ukrainian civilians.

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