Revival of 'Karooke on Maidan'
After a seven-year hiatus and despite widespread criticism from Ukrainians about airing entertainment shows during wartime, the iconic program 'Karooke on Maidan' is returning to screens on the TET channel. Ihor Kondratiuk, the show's creator and creative producer, addressed the circumstances of its return, emphasizing the charitable component. The first episode raised 83,000 hryvnias, with an additional 55,000 hryvnias donated via QR code, bringing the total to nearly 140,000 hryvnias in a single broadcast.
Kondratiuk noted that since 2022, he has collected almost 600,000 hryvnias for the 46th Brigade and the 34th Regiment of the National Guard. He also reported that 208,000 hryvnias were raised over five months, after which the CEO of Robota.ua added 40,000 hryvnias. In 2022, 265,000 hryvnias were gathered in just five days to purchase a vehicle for a military unit. Kondratiuk stressed, 'Over 20 years of 'Karooke on Maidan,' I have done everything to keep the game as fair as possible for those who want to participate.'
Changes and social responsibility
Notably, filming has moved from Khreshchatyk to Contract Square, due to a memorial for fallen soldiers located just 100 meters away. Kondratiuk licensed TET to produce a certain number of episodes of 'Karooke on Maidan' under his supervision. However, he declined to host the show, with that role now filled by Khas. Kondratiuk also refused one TV channel permission to air old episodes from before 2014, as they still featured Russian-language songs.
On a personal note, Kondratiuk's son has been serving in the 46th Assault Brigade since 2023 and was promoted to senior lieutenant. Kondratiuk also commented on his conflict with Vitaliy Kozlovsky, stating, 'The truth was on my side, and it was easily proven in six or seven court cases.' He added that he received more gratitude for his stance than for 'Karooke.' The rights to Vitaliy Kozlovsky's songs were sold to him after fines were paid.
Additionally, Kondratiuk addressed the film 'In the Zenith,' which is currently on hold due to the war and the departure of its lead actor and director. He described it as 'the biggest weight on my soul right now' and expressed hope that filming could eventually be completed. The State Cinema Agency is the film's sole investor, and Kondratiuk received funds only for the first portion, shot in 2021. An auditor reviewed the expenditure report, and the agency accepted it.
The return of 'Karooke on Maidan' is significant not only as entertainment but also as a fundraising platform for Ukrainian military support. Amid war, the show demonstrates social responsibility and the power to unite people around charitable causes. It also highlights the role of culture and arts during crisis, as such projects can provide vital backing for those defending the nation. The program's revival signals a resurgence of cultural activity in Ukraine despite challenging circumstances.
In light of the recent developments surrounding the show's return, it's important to understand the reasons behind the relocation of “Karaoke on Maidan.” The shift to a new venue not only reflects a commitment to honoring fallen heroes but also aligns with Kondratiuk's vision for social responsibility. For a deeper insight into this decision and its implications, read more about the show's new location here.