Merseyrail and Supplies for Ukraine C.I.C. have partnered to provide visibility and opportunities to buskers from Ukraine who have lost their audience due to the ongoing war. Buskers will have the chance to perform for the audience of this year's Eurovision Song Contest at Liverpool's four main metro stations.
The campaign is running now through to the Eurovision Song Contest final on 13 May. QR codes will be available for passers-by to scan and find out more about the musicians' stories and donate to the cause. All proceeds will go directly to Supplies for Ukraine C.I.C.
Supplies for Ukraine C.I.C. aims to provide lifesaving, essential equipment to civilians and volunteers on the front lines of Ukraine. Since it was established in March 2022, the organisation has impacted hundreds of Ukrainians, delivering tactical medical kits, protective gear, communication tech, drones and vehicles.
Remote busking spots will be set up along the Merseyrail network at the following stations: Liverpool Central; Lime Street; Moorfields; and James Street
The music will be recorded by Ukrainian street performers in Kyiv before it is streamed remotely in Liverpool’s central stations. The Ukrainian musicians include Frumin & Galaydyuk; Oleksandr Honcharenko; Viktoria Zabiaka; Khrystyna Mamon; and Ivan Zamiga.
“Merseyrail is honoured to be hosting this fantastic initiative to honour Ukrainian buskers,” said Suzanne Grant, Commercial Director at Merseyrail. “We’re delighted that we can provide an opportunity for these musicians to have their music heard during Eurovision, just as they would have done if Ukraine was able to host the event.
“We believe our passengers will really enjoy the music and it will help everyone celebrate the Eurovision Song Contest. We are sure our passengers will join us in giving help and support to Ukraine at this time by donating to this very worthy cause.”