Beneath the Surface: 'The Trumpeter' Brings Ukrainian War Stories to Life

19 April 2025

On April 28 and 29, 2025, a staged reading of The Trumpeter by Ukrainian playwright Inna Goncharova, translated into English by John Farndon. The performances will take place at Dupont Underground, located Dupont Circle NW, Washington, US.

The Trumpeter tells the story of the last surviving member of a military band who seeks refuge beneath the steelworks of Mariupol during the 2022 Russian bombardment. This poignant narrative captures the harrowing essence of war. The unique subterranean setting of Dupont Underground, with its echoing chambers, serves as an apt backdrop, evoking the atmosphere of a wartime bunker.​

Directed by the esteemed Janos Szasz, the reading features performances by actors Michael Kevin Darnall and Lise Bruneau. This event marks the initial phase of a production dedicated to showcasing Ukrainian playwrights, with a full performance anticipated later in the year.​

Dupont Underground is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to fostering a multidisciplinary platform for creative expression. Operating primarily through volunteer efforts, it aims to reflect the diversity of the community by hosting projects that may not align with conventional venues.

 

Address

Dupont Underground
19 Dupont Circle NW
Washington, DC
United States