“We Have To Do What We Can To Bring Joy”

In 2018, acclaimed Ukrainian ballet dancer Oleg Ivenko made the leap into movies. His debut role was as Rudolf Nureyev: the Russian legend considered the greatest dancer of his generation. Starring in The White Crow, which followed Nureyev’s defection to the West during the Cold War, Ivenko developed a special connection to his hero – and he now returns to the part, performing a famous pas de deux in a celebration of Nureyev’s work at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane. He spoke to Vogue about representing Ukraine on the world stage, his love for his “movie father” Ralph Fiennes, and why, after a new film with Diane Kruger, he might set his sights on Marvel.

First of all, I’m very sorry to see what is happening in Ukraine

When the situation started, I was in Poland shooting a movie, and of course I was very worried because my parents and my brother and his family live in Ukraine. They had to move to a safe place, which they’ve now done. But it’s very hard. I was born in Ukraine; I started studying ballet when I was five, and I joined the International Ballet School at 15 years old, so from a young age I’ve travelled a lot, all over the world. It’s a long time since I’ve lived there, but this is a difficult time, and I hope it will be over soon. This situation is just a small part of the story of the wonderful country of Ukraine. 

Do you feel it’s important to be out in the world representing Ukraine at the moment?

It’s very important. I know dancers, painters and actors all over the world who were born in Ukraine, and right now we have to do what we can to bring joy, and to show how important art is. We’re trying to do that and we’ll keep doing it.

Tell me about the event that you’re doing in London

It’s a gala in honour of the wonderful dancer Rudolf Nureyev, at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. We’re doing five performances, but I’m particularly looking forward to the opening night, which will be hosted by Dame Monica Mason, who danced with Nureyev, and my movie teacher Mr Ralph Fiennes [who directed and co-starred in The White Crow]. I’ll be very glad to see him – oh my god, I really miss him.