Circus During the War

On the eve of the New Year holidays, more than two thousand children from the frontline regions of Ukraine experienced a true miracle. Thanks to the joint efforts of the "Magic Wings" Charitable Foundation, the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Variety and Circus Arts, and the State Circus Company of Ukraine, vibrant circus performances were held in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro. This spring, children’s impressions will come to life in an art exhibition titled “Circus During the War.”

The circus is always more than just a show. It’s emotions that remain in a child’s memory forever. That’s why we prepared this project with such care, reaching thousands of families. Children came from towns and villages located near the frontline, where light is always scarce. We were happy to bring them a little piece of joy.

In Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro, truly magical performances took place — with clowns, acrobats, trained animals, and music. The arenas were filled with laughter and happiness — for those moments, the war seemed to disappear.

After the shows, every child received a holiday gift lovingly prepared by our partners, sponsors, and volunteers. These were not just items — they were pieces of care and hope. In total, we distributed more than 2,000 gifts, each one a result of the sincere support of people who believe in the power of kindness.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the directors of the circuses in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipro, who warmly embraced our idea and helped make each performance truly special. Their support is priceless.

"Children’s laughter is the best reward for any effort. Thank you to everyone who helped create this celebration!"
— The Magic Wings Charitable Foundation team

The most touching impressions were captured in children’s drawings. After the performances, the kids drew circus artists, bright arenas, aerial gymnasts, and… the light they felt during dark times. We collected these works to share them with the world.

From April 20 to May 9, Kyiv will host the “Circus During the War” children’s art exhibition, displayed on the windows of the Pechersk Palace. Anyone passing by will be able to glimpse this colorful world of childhood reflected on glass.

We invite everyone to visit the exhibition and feel the power of children’s imagination, hope, and happiness. Even in times of war, magic stays alive — in the eyes of children, in their drawings, and in every step we take together toward the light.