Luda Tymoshenko, a dedicated member of Schauspiel Stuttgart, presents this exploration of the theatre’s significant role in showcasing Ukrainian theatre and cultural exchange.
Schauspiel Stuttgart, the principal theatre of the German state of Baden-Württemberg, has established itself as a significant platform for Ukrainian theatre and cultural expression. Over the past three years, numerous plays, performances, and audiovisual installations dedicated to Ukraine have taken place on its stages, both large and intimate. This commitment highlights the theatre’s role as a bridge between cultures and a space for artistic collaboration.
One of the most notable projects featured texts by prominent Ukrainian authors, including Pavlo Arie, Olena Gapieieva, Natalka Blok, Andrii Bondarenko, Julia Gonchar, Olga Matsyupa, Kateryna Penkova, Lena Laguszonkowa, Igor Bilyts, Anastasiia Kosodii, Oksana Savchenko, Oksana Grytsenko, Iryna Harets, and Tetyana Kytsenko. Their works offered audiences a deep and multifaceted exploration of Ukrainian literature and contemporary theatrical narratives.
Malyi Teatr was invited to present the play "Zalot," based on the work "Uncle Misha Passes By" by Ukrainian playwright Luda Tymoshenko. Originally scheduled to premiere in Kyiv, the performance was cancelled due to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Instead, its premiere took place in Stuttgart, emphasizing the resilience of Ukrainian artists and the importance of international support for their work.
Another remarkable production was "Mother Gorky," staged for the chamber theatre by Maksym Golenko, based on the text by Lena Laguszonkowa. Additionally, director Gernot Grünwald brought "City X" to life, a play-travel experience depicting life in Ukraine’s frontline cities, created in collaboration with Marina Smilianets and Luda Tymoshenko.
The engagement with Ukrainian theatre extended beyond traditional stage performances. The project "Refugee Cats" was presented at the Sommerfest of the Schloss Solitude Academy, offering Ukrainian and German children a unique storytelling experience. Readings of Marina Smelyanets' play "Borshch" and "Five Songs of Polissya" by Luda Tymoshenko were also held, with all translations expertly carried out by Lydia Nagel.
An innovative audiovisual installation, "Migratory Birds," provided a poignant perspective on the lives of Ukrainian teenagers now residing in Baden-Württemberg. Based on interviews with these young individuals, the texts were voiced by both German actors and the teenagers themselves, creating an immersive and emotionally resonant experience.
Looking ahead, Schauspiel Stuttgart is set to host an entire week dedicated to Ukrainian theatre. This event will include the premiere of "Welcome to the End of the World" by Marina Smelyanets, directed by Stas Zhirkov. The production features outstanding performances, complemented by visually striking set designs and costumes.
Additionally, the Prague Theatre will present two plays based on Ukrainian literature—"Green Corridors" by Natalka Vorozhbyt and "Moscoviada" by Yuri Andrukhovych. The Kyiv Franko Theatre will bring "The Witch of Konotop," directed by Ivan Uryvskyi, and "Buna" by Vira Makovii, directed by David Petrosyan. Demand for tickets to these performances has been overwhelming, underscoring the growing appreciation and enthusiasm for Ukrainian theatre among audiences in Germany.
Schauspiel Stuttgart continues to stand as a beacon of artistic expression and international collaboration. By providing a stage for Ukrainian voices, it fosters cultural dialogue and supports the resilience of artists who share their stories amidst challenging circumstances. This commitment solidifies the theatre’s reputation as an institution of profound artistic and human significance.