Hundreds of young Ukrainian circus performers have found a new home in Hungary, since fleeing Russia’s invasion of their country.

In the past two years, the Budapest Capital Circus has welcomed numerous young performers, aged 5 to 20, as well as a team of choreographers and trainers. The circus, which has been entertaining audiences in the Hungarian capital since 1889, has given opportunities to many talented individuals.

One of the individuals is Alesa Astapova, who at 18 years old left her home in Kyiv when Russia’s tanks were nearing the capital in March 2022.

Astapova expressed her gratitude for the circus, which provided her with a space to train and pursue her passion. She is currently studying at the Budapest Contemporary Dance Academy, where she spends her mornings dancing and her evenings performing at a facility on the outskirts of the city.

The citizens of Ukraine frequently participate in shows at the central circus venue located in the heart of the urban area. The director, Peter Fekete, expresses his desire to support the aspiring performers in their professional growth.

“We didn’t think twice about welcoming a group of children who came to our door during the war, seeking refuge from their homes. At the time, we believed that the war would only last a day, maybe a week or a month at most. However, it has now been two years,” he stated to VOA.

Fekete emphasized the importance of providing individuals with a sense of purpose. He stated that through providing them with opportunities and carefully selecting programs that align with their interests, they are able to see a meaningful reason to live, work towards, and fight for every day.

The circus has provided protection and concentration for the youth of Ukraine. However, what lies ahead is uncertain. Several of the artists come from Kharkiv, located in the eastern region of Ukraine, which has suffered greatly from Russia’s attack.

“My family is still in Ukraine,” said 18-year-old Nikita Leshchenko. “They continue to live and work in Kharkiv because there is no other choice… when we call our relatives, they try to hide what is happening there. But we still know everything, we see everything from many sources. It’s horrible,” Leshchenko said. Despite the dangers, he is desperate to return. “Yes, there are many opportunities here, but I also really want to go home,” he said.

Fifteen-year-old Mikhail Chepkiy is currently facing difficulties in figuring out his future plans. He recognizes that Europe presents numerous prospects and he has a strong desire to travel and showcase his talent. However, he also values returning to Ukraine to visit his loved ones and spend quality time there. He assures that he and his peers will definitely visit Ukraine once the current war has concluded.

The youth entertainers in Budapest are given good care; the circus takes care of their housing and food, and also offers educational opportunities. However, they are confronted with challenging choices in life.

Alesa Astapova is eager to reunite with her mother, who remains in Kyiv. However, she recognizes that Ukraine will need time to heal. “I plan on traveling for some time, as even if the war comes to an end and stability is restored, the country will need time to rebound, to find its rhythm, and to secure necessary financial aid. Perhaps afterwards, I may return home… but within the next five years, I don’t believe it will be possible.”

The director, Peter Fekete, maintains that the circus provides valuable insights.

“We have become accustomed to the idea that if one person jumps on one side, another person on the opposite side will catch them, regardless of their nationality as Russian or Ukrainian. Since the onset of war, our shows have featured Russians and Ukrainians collaborating and supporting one another. I believe this conveys a message to the rest of the world about the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and peace,” he stated.

Source: voanews.com