Polina Polozhentseva still finds it hard to believe the incredible team that came together to bring A Fan of War to life in London. The performance, a deeply moving and resonant piece, was the result of tireless collaboration and dedication. At the heart of it all was producer Molly Flynn, whose unwavering commitment made the entire project possible. Every element — from translation to performance—came together with precision, emotion, and a shared sense of urgency. John Farndon's quick and accurate translation ensured that the story maintained its power in a new language, allowing audiences to connect with its raw authenticity.
The synergy between Polina and Anastazie Toros brought the production to a new creative height, their collaboration sparking moments of brilliance on stage. Bogdana Kalantay, with her deep understanding of the text’s emotional weight, delivered a performance that left a lasting impact. Audience members praised the bold yet nuanced portrayal of intimate moments, a testament to the cast’s courage and skill. Meanwhile, Nathan Trochet stunned viewers with his sincere, comical, and heartbreaking performance as a woman from a Zaporizhzhia village under Russian bombardment. His portrayal was a powerful reminder of the universality of human suffering and resilience.
Beyond the stage, A Fan of War extended its message through powerful visuals. Photographer Kate Klochko contributed striking images for the production’s merchandise, including T-shirts featuring photographs of Russian missile strikes on Zaporizhzhia from January 23. That attack left over 50 people injured, many suffering life-altering injuries. Thanks to Yevgeniia Polozhentseva, this initiative ensured that these stories were not just told but remembered. Support poured in from all directions—friends, audience members, and institutions like the Ukrainian Institute London, which helped elevate the voices of artists sharing these urgent narratives.