The performance “Swimming Through” is a call for action in support of the Ukrainian people who are facing genocide committed by Russia.

It’s a call to not remain neutral in the face of the war. A call to take an active part in protecting the lives, the freedom, and the democracy of Ukrainian people who are being tortured, raped, and killed by Russia.

It is important not to get numb to the horrific images of mass killings of Ukrainians and their pain. The seemingly never-ending horrors imposed by Russia on the Ukrainian land must not become the norm. With countries such as Germany not stepping up and posing adequate sanctions on the aggressor – choosing money over people, makes it hard to remain hopeful. Therefore it’s crucial that we keep acting – spreading truthful information, volunteering, protesting, donating, and pressuring our governments to take action.

The bloody pond emphasizes Russia’s responsibility for committing war crimes against Ukrainians. Swimming, performed by Lithuanian Olympian Rūta Meilutytė, symbolizes the need for continuous effort to fight through.

‘Swimming Through’

Directors: Berta Tilmantaitė, Neringa Rekašiūtė, Rūta Meilutytė, Aurelija Urbonavičiūtė

Photography & Video: Neringa Rekašiūtė, Berta Tilmantaitė, Mindaugas Drigotas, Andrius Repšys, Karolis Pilypas Liutkevičius

Music: Viktoras Urbaitis

Big thanks to the sponsors: Cgates, UAB; Aurelijus Liubinas; Inospectra, UAB