In a powerful display of national fortitude, Ukraine’s beloved television franchise ‘Dancing with the Stars’ has returned for a special episode featuring military veterans and heroes who have sustained life-altering injuries during Russia’s ongoing invasion. The production, known locally as ‘Tantsi z zirkamy’, has transformed from celebrity entertainment into a profound testament to human resilience, with performers incorporating prosthetic limbs into their choreography.
The episode marks a significant evolution for the show that once catapulted actor Volodymyr Zelenskyy to victory in 2006. Now in its wartime iteration, the program showcases public figures who have gained prominence since February 2022, dancing under extraordinary circumstances that include frequent power outages and potential air raid alerts.
Creative producer Volodymyr Zavadiuk described the production as both a celebration of resilience and a statement about Ukraine’s future. The filming process encountered numerous logistical challenges, including malfunctioning generators and security concerns that prevented live broadcasting. Despite these obstacles, participants delivered emotionally charged performances that addressed themes of self-acceptance and reclaiming identity after traumatic injury.
Among the standout performers was Ruslana Danilkina, a war veteran who lost her leg in combat in 2022 and now works at the Superhumans Center, a specialized rehabilitation clinic that will receive all proceeds from the broadcast. Her performance focused on the journey toward self-love and accepting affection after physical trauma.
The episode also featured emotional moments such as veteran Ivan Voinov and his wife Solomiia sharing their second dance since his injury—their first having occurred at their wedding three months prior. Their story, along with others, underscored the program’s deeper message about maintaining human connection and hope amid adversity.
Ukrainian rock musician Yevhen Halych, another participant, articulated the collective sentiment driving the production: a genuine desire to live fully regardless of circumstances. The special episode will air with audience voting mechanisms intact, maintaining the show’s competitive spirit while serving a humanitarian purpose.