An important step in the development of the Donetsk Academic Regional Drama Theater (Mariupol) was the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Odessa Film Studio, facilitated by the “First Charitable Theater Fund” Charitable Foundation. The document opens up new opportunities for the development and promotion of Ukrainian culture, the integration of theater and cinema, and the implementation of joint artistic projects.
The partnership envisions the creation of large-scale cultural and artistic initiatives, support for national cinema and theater arts, and the establishment of effective cooperation between professional communities. This is not merely about cooperation, but about creating an environment for the exchange of experience, joint production, and the mutual reinforcement of creative practices. Such interaction will contribute to strengthening interregional ties and the formation of a unified cultural space in Ukraine.
One of the first results will be the innovative immersive performance “The Enemy’s Cosmetics,” based on the novel by Amélie Nothomb. The production will be presented in a 270° multimedia immersion format using augmented reality and spatial sound technologies, where the audience member becomes not an observer but a direct participant in the events.
Through the metaphor of the “internal enemy,” the performance explores complex psychological processes: the invasion of personal boundaries, manipulation, and the nature of violence. The project highlights the issue of preserving identity in wartime and offers a new level of interaction between art and the audience.
The production is being staged at the unique Vera Kholodna Art Space at the Odessa Film Studio—the only technically equipped venue in Ukraine that meets the requirements of immersive theater of this caliber.
The premiere will take place on May 21, 2026.
This project proves that Ukrainian theater lives, breathes, and triumphs, despite the losses, despite the pain, despite the war.
It is about the courage to create when times are tough. About the strength to speak out when it hurts. And about faith in oneself, in the audience, and in Ukraine.