Celebrating a Century of Ukrainian Theatre in Odesa
The Odesa Academic Ukrainian Musical and Dramatic Theatre named after V. Vasylyk is celebrating its centenary. The theatre shared this significant milestone on its social media.
On November 7, 1925, the theatre was founded in Odesa, becoming a vibrant voice of Ukrainian culture in the city. Over the last century, it has undergone various transformations: from the innovations of the 1920s to the challenges of war, from evacuation to restoration.
The first artistic director was Mark Tereshchenko, and in the second season, Vasyl Vasylyk took over, whose productions became a part of the global theatrical canon. The artist’s innovative wave was supported by various ensembles of the theatre for decades.
In the first three years, the theatre presented 34 premieres, including famous performances like “Viy,” “For Two Hares,” and “Haida maky.” By the 1930s, it had established itself as a true center of theatrical life, where the most renowned actors and directors of the era worked.
During World War II, the theatre was evacuated, but it returned home in 1944, alongside the liberation of Odesa. After the war, the Ukrainian language once again filled the hall, and classic works were revived.
In the 1990s, during the independence period, the theatre managed to preserve the Ukrainian language on its stage despite numerous challenges. Today, under the leadership of Yuliia Pyvovarova, it skillfully blends classics with contemporary drama.
The modern chapter of the theatre includes premieres in bomb shelters, international co-productions, and young talents performing alongside national artists.
The Vasylyk Theatre represents light in darkness, the power of the Ukrainian language, beauty, and truth. We thank everyone who has contributed to these 100 years and wish inspiration to those who will create the next chapter. Happy anniversary, dear theatre!
The artists also invite audiences to celebrate the anniversary by attending performances on November 8 and 9.
