The production, dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Ukrainian poet, was first presented in Gauteng Province in 2021. It is the result of a collaboration between the Ukrainian Association of South Africa and international choreographer Kateryna Alyoshina (co-founder of Contemporary Dance Laboratory), with the support of the Embassy of Ukraine in South Africa.

The performance explores two parallel worlds: the world of nature and its mythological creatures, and the human world, inhabited by ordinary people. Through this artistic language, the performance offers audiences — particularly younger viewers — a way to reflect on the role of nature in our lives, how to face challenges, what love means, and how to care for one another. It also invites reflection on how our present actions shape the future.

The Forest is a contemporary dance performance with an immersive format, where the audience becomes an active participant rather than a passive observer. The space transforms into a living dialogue, enhanced by digital technologies. The audience experiences the performance in two dimensions: traditionally (horizontally) and through an overhead video projection.

In The Forest, the ancient sound of the Ukrainian sopilka meets the rhythm of beatbox, embroidered patterns come alive in the costumes, and movement incorporates elements of South African amapiano dance.

This year, The Forest was presented as part of the fringe programme of the National Arts Festival.

Since its founding in 1974, the festival has been held in Makhanda, Eastern Cape Province. Over the years, it has become not only a major artistic event but also a space for social dialogue, protest, and creative experimentation. Each year, the festival attracts around 200,000 visitors and features a wide range of artistic forms — from theatre, dance, and music to visual arts and stand-up comedy.

The Forest was presented four times, reaching an audience of approximately 300 people. For their performance, South African dancers Carren Johannisen, Abigail Johnson, Tyla Kleyn, and Andre Maarman of the Contemporary Dance Laboratory, together with choreographer Kateryna Alyoshina, received the Ovation Award.

The Ovation Award recognises outstanding productions within the fringe programme that have generated strong audience engagement, critical attention, and demonstrate high artistic quality.

Participation in the National Arts Festival 2025 was made possible with the support of the Ukrainian Institute, the Cultural Diplomacy Foundation, the Ukrainian Association of South Africa, and ASSITEJ South Africa. This marks the first presentation of Ukrainian culture at the festival.