Laughter Amidst War: Humorina in Odessa
On April 1st, Odessa celebrated the Day of Laughter with a remarkable performance by the actors of the «Mask» theater in the city garden.
According to a correspondent from Ukrinform, the performers sang captivating songs, danced, and recited poetry. A humorous quiz also took place where tickets to the «Mask» theater's shows were raffled off.
«We live in a time when laughter is essential. In a world filled with negativity, the need for positivity grows. We know how to make people happy. I often hear from audience members that thanks to us, they smile again. A people who can laugh cannot be defeated,» said Boris Barsky, the director of the «Mask» theater.
Actor Oleksandr Postolenko noted that the need for laughter is always present, especially during wartime.
«It's important to distract ourselves. Of course, we must not forget about the war. We need to help. You cannot forbid love, childbirth, or laughter. Laughter is a part of our lives,» emphasized the artist.
The Humorina festival in Odessa, which started in the 1970s, has become a tradition founded by the KVN team «Business People». Initially, the festival took place at a stadium with a carnival parade, an old car parade, and concerts. Although the festival was banned in 1976, it was revived in the late 1980s.
In 2014, the Humorina was canceled due to the political situation, but the streets hosted the «Comedyada» organized by the «Mask» theater. In 2017, thousands of people celebrated by wearing funny costumes. During the pandemic, Humorina was held online.
Despite the war, in 2022, Odessa organized Humorina-Dzhavilina, with a charity marathon in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as the main event.
In 2023, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Humorina, actors from the theater «Mask» and the National Guard orchestra greeted the citizens. In 2024, the «Mask» theater plans to hold an «economy version» of Humorina in the city garden.
