Artists Break Ties with the National Opera of Ukraine
On April 27, 2026, People's Artist of Ukraine Nataliia Matsak and Honored Artist of Ukraine Serhii Kryvokon prematurely ended their contracts with the National Opera of Ukraine. The married couple, who had been touring Europe with the ballet 'Swan Lake,' remained abroad after their vacation and are currently in France. The contracts were terminated at the artists' request, though Kryvokon violated rules governing performers' travel abroad.
Matsak holds the title of People's Artist of Ukraine, while Kryvokon is a Honored Artist of Ukraine. During their official leave, which lasted until April 26, 2026, the couple submitted a request for additional unpaid leave from January 26 to April 26. Petro Chupryna, the General Director of the National Opera of Ukraine, confirmed that the theater has fully settled all financial obligations with the artists.
Artists' Statements and Reactions
Nataliia Matsak and Serhii Kryvokon stated: 'Today (April 27, 2026), our contracts with the National Opera of Ukraine ended. 25 years of our lives were tied to this stage.' - Nataliia Matsak and Serhii Kryvokon
Chupryna noted that the couple had initially sought to suspend, rather than terminate, their contracts, but this was deemed impossible given the theater's interests. He also pointed out that the artists wish to perform a broad repertoire, including works by Russian composers.
Additionally, Kryvokon had previously lost his draft deferment, which contributed to his violation of travel rules. Chupryna expressed concern: 'We need to tighten controls, but how? We must operate within the law.' The couple has already indicated they are prepared to take the matter to court.
This situation highlights the challenges Ukrainian artists face while touring abroad, as well as the tensions that can arise between performers and theater institutions. The decision to break a contract after decades of collaboration may point to deeper issues in cultural policy and theater management, especially amid the current social and political climate in Ukraine.