Rochester, N.Y. (WHAM) — The Eastman School of Music and RocMaidan hosted a concert in collaboration to raise awareness and support for the Ukrainian war effort.

Background: From Rochester to Ukraine: Roc Maidan volunteers prepare major shipment

A sold-out crowd packed Eastman Theatre to watch “La-La Land,” soundtracked live by Eastman’s Film and Media Ensemble.

“Beautiful music, show, and enjoyment,” said Elena Dilai with RocMaidan. “There’s so many in the world who are relying on the help of volunteers who are not as fortunate as you or I, who can’t watch the concert and sleep peacefully, and who are dying under Russian bombs.”

RocMaidan collected donations at the concert. The organization expects to send a shipment of vital supplies to the Ukrainian front lines, which will cost roughly $8,900.

An Eastman School representative said they’ve been working with RocMaidan to help spread their message.

“We thought it was a natural partnership,” said Eastman School of Music Director of Concert Operations Mike Stefiuk. “We worked with them to create awareness around the war in Ukraine, and we’ve invited them again here tonight to just continue to spread that awareness.”

Elena Dilai said that awareness needs to be sustained.

“Two years ago, there was a lot of help in the world that was fresh in people’s minds,” said Dilai. “Everybody felt for Ukrainians who were dying. Now, it’s not so much. People are going about their business. People are living their lives and this is just something that we need. We need to remind people.”

On Saturday, RocMaidan will send its 20th shipment of humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

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