During the opening, Chief Playwright and Assistant Artistic Director of the Maxim Gorky Theater Johannes Kirsten, Director of the Berlin Office of the German Marshall Fund of the United States Sudha David-Wilp, and Rector of EHU Dr. Vilius Šadauskas highlighted the importance of theater (and art) as a platform for free expression, particularly in addressing the pressing socio-political issues of Eastern European countries.
The two-day event featured four stage readings by playwrights and directors from three countries.
In the play “I’ll Huck You, Dictator” by Belarusian playwright Nikita Ilyinchik, the unique story of modern Belarusian cyber-partisans is brought to life. This highly secretive community is composed of members who remain anonymous and are not even acquainted with one another, yet are united in their opposition to the regime. By drawing parallels to the partisan movement of World War II, the play bridges Belarus’ past and present.
The play “Map of Visible Zones” by Ukrainian playwright Iryna Serebryakova explores the themes of nonviolent resistance and female defiance in the occupied territories of Ukraine. The heroines of the play call themselves Mavkas, inspired by folkloric forest fairies who, according to legend, brutally punish those who trespass on their land. They convey to the occupiers the message that they are unwelcome by distributing leaflets, placing stickers, and tying ribbons in the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
The Belarusian play “The Last Witness [of Old Grodno]” explores the theme of independent journalism in contemporary Belarus. It is based on the true story of a journalist who documented residents’ memories and wrote books about life in Grodno across different historical periods. Following the 2020 presidential election, he sought to highlight the events unfolding in his hometown and paid a heavy price for his civic engagement. The stage reading underscored the importance of preserving memory and fighting for truth in the face of totalitarianism.
The play “Ultimate Russian Protest Guide. Deluxe golden Edition (extended version),” written by Russian playwright Elektra Liberte and directed by Masha Sapizhak, explores how activists opposing the regime operate within the country. Some speak out openly, while others work anonymously, calling on Russians to rethink their history and the country’s direction.
After the performances, participants and viewers engaged in discussions, highlighting the importance of addressing pressing issues in their respective countries, speaking out boldly, and supporting those who stand for democratic and humanistic principles.
The project showcased how the European Humanities University, drawing on 20 years of experience in exile, uses art to address important contemporary issues within Belarus and among Belarusians living abroad, while fostering stronger connections with civil society in Belarus and across Europe.
More details about the project are coming soon.
Photos by Aleksandra Kononchenko and Anna Korneyuk
