Paul McCartney to perform free concert in the Ukraine

He’s ‘Back in the USSR’ – well at least the former USSR! Sir Paul McCartney announced ‘Yesterday’ that he will be performing a free concert in Kyiv’s (Kiev’s) Independence Square on the 14th June. The concert, called ‘Independence Concert’ is the brainchild of Victor Pinchuk, the billionaire tycoon who was behind last year’s free concert by Elton John in the same square.

“One could not imagine this 30 years ago. Nobody could even dare to hope for this 20 years ago. One could only dream about it 10 years ago. 5 years ago we could only envy our neighbours for whom this became a reality. And finally the day has come. For the first time we have the opportunity to hear the songs that changed the world and created a new culture” Pinchuk was quoted as saying.

To coincide with the free concert, the Pinchuk art Centre, the largest contemporary art gallery in Eastern Europe, will be exhibiting 40 pieces of artwork by Sir Paul McCartney – the first exhibition by the artist in this part of the world. Sir Paul will personally open the exhibition.

Ukraine, and in particular Kyiv, has in recent times been the focus of much international attention – since the dramatic Orange Revolution in 2004, hosting the 2005 Eurovision song contest, recently being awarded as the joint host of the 2012 UEFA Football championship, and playing host to a string of concerts by artists such as Elton John and the Rolling Stones, the announcement of this most recent concert solidifies Kyiv as Eastern Europe’s new cultural hub.

Together with its ancient history, inspiring architecture, cosmopolitan night life and increasing awareness on the world stage Kyiv has truly come of age.

McCartney says: “I’m very excited because on the 14th June I’ve been invited to play a concert in Independence Square, Kyiv. Me and the band are going to be there and we’re going to have a great evening and we hope to see you there. So come long, it’s going to be a great evening hopefully for Ukraine. Pull together, groove, rock and roll – all together!”

And to help those in London to ‘Come Together’ with the music fans of Ukraine, Panorama Tours is offering 3 night weekend packages to coincide with this once in a lifetime event - 5* short breaks in Kyiv start from £285.00 per person + tax including return flights with Ukraine International Airlines from London Gatwick, 3 night’s accommodation with buffet breakfast, meet and assist and transfers from Kyiv’s Boryspil Airport.

For more information, visit Panorama-tours.eu.