Even war cannot destroy theatre
The report is dedicated to World Theatre Day and the resilience of the Chernihiv Drama Theatre staff following the missile strike in August 2023.
Title: Even war cannot destroy theatre
Author: Yuliya Nayda Sokolov
Length (in minutes): 9:58
Original language: ukrajinština
Name of station which broadcast the program: Ukrainske Radio Chernihiv (27. 3. 2026)
Despite significant damage to the main hall and the roof, the institution continues to operate thanks to support from international partners and the creation of new performance spaces.
Director Oksana Tunik-Fryz provided a tour of the facility, showcasing the "White Hall" (formerly a scenery room) and a basement stage where performances continue even during air raids.
While audiences and actors face psychological stress due to the threat of shelling, the theatre remains a place of strength.
The troupe has been significantly reduced:19 employees joined the defense forces, one of whom, Petro Velykyi, was killed in action, and another is missing. Despite the structural damage to parts of the building, the theatre is preparing for a full reconstruction after victory and continues to offer art to its audience, proving that war cannot stop life.
We will be presenting the project at Prix Bohemia Radio
When: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | listening session
Where: UP Arts Center, Univerzitní 3 | Theater Hall – 3rd Floor
Entrance: Free admission with accreditation
Look at the detailed program of the listening session
