Amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine as debates over a ceasefire and the war's future continue, a feminist protest and performance art group will be back in Kelowna to share messages of social justice through music.
The Russian punk band and political activist group Pussy Riot is set to play at the Revelry Food + Music Hub on April 13.
Proceeds from the performance will directly support Ukrainian aid efforts and Russian political prisoners, reflecting Pussy Riot’s commitment to fighting for justice and human rights.
This will be the group’s second appearance at the Revelry after playing last year during its Riot Days tour.
The band was founded in Moscow but became popular around the world for its provocative punk rock music and unauthorized performative protest ‘guerilla gigs’ that were held in public places.
Following its world premiere at Munich’s Haus der Kunst on Feb. 2, Pussy Riot: Riot Days brings an entirely new rendition that dives deeper into the heart of activism.
The show spotlights pivotal events, including:
- Pussy Riot’s audacious protests, from their clash with Cossacks at the 2014 Sochi Olympics to raising rainbow flags on Russia’s most significant government buildings.
- Attacks by pro-Kremlin groups and the ongoing violence and oppression faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Russia.
- The harrowing story of Alexey Navalny’s arrest, imprisonment, and eventual murder in prison.
- Maria’s repeated arrests and the movement’s defiance in the face of systemic oppression.
- The ongoing consequences of Putin’s war in Ukraine.
Founding member of Pussy Riot, Maria Alekhina, will take the stage in Kelowna.
Additionally, Alekhina is releasing a book in the fall titled Riot Days, which explores her release from a Russian prison, “painting a vivid portrait of political protest and personal struggle.”
