Ukrainian singer who fled war for Tipperary plays leading role on choir's new single

A national Ukrainian choir, brought together by local development companies across Ireland, has released a new version of Phil Coulter’s single, Steal Away, in collaboration with the singer.

The choir is made up of 40 people including singer Ruslan Veliev from Killenaule, who fled Ukraine as a result of the war.

The single, translated into Ukrainian, was launched at a special event in St Stephen’s Church, Dublin, where the choir performed with Phil Coulter.

The song, originally written by Coulter 40 years ago, tells the story of a couple who escape from the Troubles and there are many parallels with the current situation facing Ukrainians. The song will be available for download via Spotify, and the road to the launch forms the subject of a documentary due to be released in coming months.

Commenting on his involvement in the initiative, Phil Coulter said: “When I wrote Steal Away in 1983 the song was in response to the conflict that was happening in Northern Ireland at the time. I couldn’t have imagined that 40 years later it would have a connection to the situation facing Ukrainians today.”

Speaking about the launch of Steal Away, Isabel Cambie, CEO of South Tipperary Development Company said: “We are thrilled to be a part of this important project. There is nothing more rewarding than assisting others in achieving their aspirations.”

Also commenting on the single launch, Carol Baumann, CEO at the Irish Local Development Network said: “We are delighted to have been able to co-ordinate this initiative in conjunction with South Tipperary Development Company and local development companies across Ireland. Music is a universal language and has been a great way for the participants make meaningful connections and express themselves through song.

“The role of our 49 local development companies is to create vibrant and inclusive communities where people feel supported and welcome.

“Our LDCs are doing remarkable work in Tipperary and across the country, and we hope to continue to help build inclusive communities where all members are valued and supported.”