In memory of dancer Artem Kolbasynskyi.

He believed that if he could save even a few lives, it would be worth it.

"A 24-year-old serviceman and dancer Artem Kolbasynskyi died in the war; before the full-scale invasion, he was a ballet artist at the Klaipeda State Musical Theatre in Lithuania," the Klaipeda State Musical Theatre reported.

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Artem joined the military in March 2022, returning to Ukraine from Lithuania, where he had been living and working with his beloved girlfriend.

"I must return to my country and defend it from the occupiers. This is my duty, both to my homeland and to my loved ones who remain there. However, this decision was difficult; I won’t hide that," he said in his last interview with the local publication Zmones.

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Artem was born in Ukraine and was adopted after his biological parents passed away when he was only four years old. He discovered his true roots just six months before the war began, when he accidentally found his older sister through social media. Artem immediately traveled to his homeland, where he celebrated the New Year with his recently found relatives.

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In March 2022, Artem emphasized that he did not understand those who supported their country only through donations and reposts on social media.

"I am a physically strong 22-year-old guy, so I can help not just with thoughts but by being in my country and fighting. Financial support and moral backing are also important, but I will be more useful by providing real assistance. Who will defend Ukraine if everyone just sends money and supports with words, not actions? Who will use the weapons bought with collected funds if everyone flees the country?" the dancer stated.

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He mentioned that he could not calmly watch the events in Ukraine from Klaipeda because he "would lose himself as a person" and "would lose humanity in his heart."

The young man spoke about his preparation for war, admitting that before leaving, he had to undergo training in Lithuania to feel a rifle in his hands and learn some military skills. The Klaipeda community actively supported Artem — former military personnel provided him with a military uniform, gear, and first-aid kits, which he took back to his hometown of Brovary near Kyiv.

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Artem had been dancing since childhood and graduated with a degree in choreography from the Kyiv Choreographic Academy named after Serge Lifar in 2019. Immediately after that, he was accepted into the ballet troupe of the Klaipeda State Musical Theatre.

Among his favorite roles were the solo piece "Darkness in Light" (choreographed by Žilvinas Benyshavičius), the Warrior in "In the Shadow of Altars," the Father in "In the Fir Tree of the Queen-Snake," as well as dances in classic productions like "The Nutcracker," "Romeo and Juliet," and others. Artem dreamed of playing the lead role in "Faust": it was in this performance that his last appearances on stage took place on March 24 and 25, 2022.

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Artem was not afraid of death; he believed that if he could save even a few lives, it would have meaning.

"I am scared, but if I can save at least a few lives, it makes sense. I can sacrifice my life for this," he said. And he indeed sacrificed his life defending his native land.

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The team at the Klaipeda State Musical Theatre extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all fans of Artem Kolbasynskyi. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, loved his art, and shared his dreams of a free Ukraine.

Eternal glory to the Hero!

Photo: Klaipėdos valstybinis muzikinis teatras, zmones.15min.lt