For over three years, the troupe of the Donetsk Academic Regional Drama Theatre (Mariupol) has been consistently carrying out a vital mission – using the language of art to convey to the world the truth about Russian aggression against Ukraine, about destroyed cities, shattered lives and the resilience of the Ukrainian people.
The latest stage in this mission was a tour of Israel in July, where the theatre presented the documentary play ‘The Mariupol Drama’.
The performances in Israeli cities went beyond the scope of ordinary theatrical events. They became profound, emotional encounters, where the stage was transformed into a space for confession and shared grief.
After each performance, the audience lingered to speak with the actors, and the final applause invariably gave way to heartfelt discussions.
Particularly poignant is the theme of so-called ‘reconstruction’, which the occupiers have launched amidst the ruins of the theatre in Mariupol. The stance of the artists and the audience is unanimous: it is impossible to build a future on the bones of the innocently murdered. Such actions by the invaders are merely a cynical attempt to erase the historical memory of war crimes.
A distinct and extremely important highlight of the tour was the audience’s expressions of gratitude for the opportunity to hear the play in Ukrainian. Today, the Ukrainian language is perceived around the world as a symbol of resilience. For many Ukrainians living abroad, the event provided a unique opportunity to feel a vivid, poignant connection with their homeland.
The experience of these performances confirms that the tragedy of a Ukrainian city takes on a tangible human dimension precisely through the raw emotions of those who survived and have found their voice. ‘The Mariupol Drama’ is an artistic reflection of the fate of a country that pays an exorbitant price every day for the right to be free.
At a time when justice needs defending no less than national borders, such artistic projects become an important part of our shared global responsibility.
The Donetsk Region Theatre today is much more than just a troupe of actors. It is the powerful voice of a city awaiting de-occupation, and the voice of Ukraine, which continues to fight. Today, this voice resounds confidently, with dignity and sincerity, on stages around the world.
According to information from the Department of Culture and Tourism of the Regional State Administration