Discovery shooting a film about the Donbass Arena pitch
The Discovery channel production crew arrived in Donetsk, embarking on a serious mission - on the eve of Euro 2012 finals, they plan to introduce the world to our wonderful stadium. The film's director Andrew Slodkowski talked in depth about the channel’s current project.
- Andrew, what will your film be about?
- It is an inside look at Euro 2012. It will consist of two episodes; the duration of each episode will be about 45 minutes. This film is not just about the stadium, we would also like to show a variety of other institutions, Polish and Ukrainian people who are engaged in preparation for the championships. For me personally, the most interesting thing at the stadium is its pitch, for the climate in your country is very severe. And in order to keep the pitch in perfect condition, you need profound knowledge, money and perseverance. In my opinion, the Donbass Arena is probably one of the most exciting stadiums of Euro 2012. I have not visited Kyiv yet but as far as I know the Donetsk venue is more modern.
- What else did you shoot at the Donbass Arena?
- We were greeted very warmly at the stadium. They showed us the venue, with unveiling all the secrets. We will show all that we want. For example, a museum. In addition, at the stadium there is a whole lot of restaurants, boxes, stands. But the main focus will be on the heating system, the pitch - anything that allows you to maintain the pitch in the severe climate.
- What was the most striking thing at our stadium?
- The fact that it is much more than just a stadium! I mean the stadium’s cafe, restaurant, VIP-rooms, shop, museum, boxes, great park, fitness centre and many other things. Usually, stadiums serve as places for sporting events such as football, for example. However, this stadium is much bigger than that! It is truly luxurious. We now want to show it to people around the world. And I think that the contrast of the snow-covered Donbass Arena in January and its look in summer will surprise many who will come here in June.
- Do you have now a feeling that football in Donetsk is more than just a game?
- Yes, I would say that football is at the heart of each of its residents. I grew up in Poland, in Katowice, a city which resembles Donetsk. I had never been here before, but I understand very well the specifics of your mentality. Indeed, you do not have a rich history, for your city is quite young, but the most important aspect is that you have something to be proud of. Shakhtar is an integral part of it. Sometimes people buy tickets just to see the stadium, to be part of this unforgettable atmosphere, not just to simply watch the match. I find it hard to imagine something like this happening somewhere in Gdansk or even in London. Here, people are really proud of their stadium and their team.
FC Shakhtar
Press Office
