Motanka: The Voice of the Bloodline

Motanka: The Voice of the Bloodline is a powerful multimedia concert experience that weaves together classical music in the form of art songs, storytelling, and visual art to showcase Ukrainian identity, cultural memory, and resilience.

It reflects the emotional depth of the Ukrainian soul while also highlighting universal human experiences that connect people across cultures. Through themes of childhood, love, loss, memory, and hope, the project demonstrates that despite cultural differences, people everywhere share the same emotional experiences.

This project reimagines the traditional classical concert format. While rooted in classical vocal and piano performance, the concert expands beyond a conventional recital into a theatrical and cinematic storytelling experience. The program is inspired by the traditional Ukrainian Motanka doll — a cultural symbol representing protection, ancestry, and the continuity of the family bloodline.

Two soloist in the concert are Valeriia Honchar (soprano) and Vladimir Soloviev (piano).

Valeriia Honchar is a Ukrainian-Canadian lyric coloratura soprano known for her expressive voice and distinctive artistic vision. A graduate of Alliance University and recipient of the 2023 Hnatyshyn Foundation Heritage, she has performed operatic roles with Vienna Summer Music Festival and Croatian Opera Academy, while also creating original concert projects across North America and Europe. She has appeared in roles such as Despina (Così fan tutte), Amy (Little Women), and multiple roles in Dido and Aeneas. Deeply connected to her Ukrainian heritage, she uses music to share stories of love, resilience, and unity.

Vladimir Soloviev is a Toronto-based collaborative pianist, vocal coach, and repetiteur, equally at home in opera and oratorio. A former member of the Canadian Opera Company’s Ensemble Studio, he has worked on mainstage productions including Tosca, Carmen, Madama Butterfly, and The Magic Flute. In addition to his work with the COC, he has coached at institutions such as the University of Toronto Opera School and Highlands Opera Studio. An active recitalist, he has performed across North America and Europe.

Event Details:

Date: May 27, 2026 - 7pm (doors open: 6:30pm)

Tickets: children under 12 - FREE

12 years old and up (ADULTS) - $25

Location: Knox Presbyterian Church

220 Livingstone Ave N, ON, N4W 2N2

Highlight of the event: Silent Auction of a painting designed for this concert

Anhelina Ihnativ a visual artist from Regina, SK who's painting will be featured during the concert.

A portion of auctioned funds as well as the ticketing will be redirected towards humanitarian needs, supporting children in Ukraine who have been effected by war. The group that we are working with is United by Love for Children.

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Host or Publisher Valeriia Honchar