Oleksandr Shapoval, beloved Principal ballet dancer and choreographer with the National Opera of Ukraine, left the company’s tour in Paris to volunteer in the Ukraine military upon hearing that Russia had invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022. He died in the war in September of the same year. He was the father of two teenagers, husband, teacher. He was described as a “reliable friend” and “sincere human being”. He was bestowed the “Honoured Artist of Ukraine” merit.

Balletomane by definition is a ballet enthusiast. What would Oleksandr say to his fans? This song tells that story. One extraordinary human story that is one of so many. So much has been lost.