A Moment to Remember: Winning My First Emmy Award

I can hardly put into words the thrill of winning my first Emmy Award as a camera operator. This recognition is not just a personal milestone; it represents the incredible work we accomplished during a truly historic performance by the National Ballet of Ukraine.

This historic EMMY Award winning performance by the National Ballet of Ukraine from the Taras Shevchenko National Opera House, was performed live from the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, Florida, and accompanied by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. This event was more than just a ballet—it was a powerful statement of unity and hope, bridging Ukraine and America in support of Ukrainian independence.

A Unified Purpose

As I stood behind the camera, I could feel the weight of the moment. This performance was not merely an artistic endeavor; it was a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of the Ukrainian people amid the ongoing challenges they face. The Ginsburg Family Foundation presented the event, and the performance was produced by the Parable Foundation, in partnership with Fullsail University. Every ticket purchased and every view counted toward something meaningful. All proceeds were directed to the Olena Zelenska Foundation, Razom, and UNICEF to provide much-needed humanitarian aid to those affected by the Russian military invasion.

Capturing Emotion Through the Lens

Working with the talented team at Adrenaline Films, we aimed to capture not just the beauty of the performance but also its emotional resonance. Each performance and orchestral piece told a story of hope, struggle, and perseverance. As a camera operator, my goal was to translate that energy into visual storytelling.

The synergy between the dancers and the orchestra created an artistic harmony charged with emotion. I remember focusing on the dancers’ expressions, their movements echoing the hopes and dreams of a nation yearning for peace. As with any live performance, I tried to maneuver my camera to capture frames that would immortalize the symbiosis of the art forms blending together.

A Celebration of Art and Humanity

It’s no surprise that this performance resonated deeply with audiences. Art has a unique ability to transcend borders and communicate on an emotional level. The collaboration between the National Ballet of Ukraine and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra was a reminder of how powerful art can be in fostering understanding and compassion among people from different backgrounds.

The Emmy Moment

When the announcement came that we had won an Emmy for our work on this project, I was surprised and humbled. In the moment it felt like I was just doing my job to the best of my ability. Receiving this award is not just a personal achievement, it is an affirmation of the collective artistic effort and passion that went into it supporting a worthy cause, symbolizing the importance of using our craft to shine a light on crucial issues and support those in need.

Looking Ahead

Winning this Emmy has ignited a new passion within me. It serves as a reminder that our work as filmmakers and artists holds the potential to impact lives profoundly. I am incredibly proud to have been part of a project that celebrated the resilience of the Ukrainian people while also raising awareness and support for humanitarian efforts.

As I reflect on this experience, I feel an immense sense of gratitude for my colleagues at Adrenaline Films, the artists who brought the performance to life, the Ukrainian people, and the organizations that are tirelessly working to provide aid. Together, we’ve demonstrated that through the power of art, we can share messages of hope and solidarity with the world.

Please consider donating here. Learn more about The National Ballet of Ukraine and watch a live performance in a city near you here.