On November 9, a press conference was held at Media Center Ukraine to present the project “Azovstal. Voices” ahead of its performance in Odesa. Key speakers at the event included Marat Korolyov, head of the Primorsky District Administration of the Odesa City Council, Oleksandra Bashkatova, manager of the NGO “Hearts of Azovstal”, and Valeria Demchenko, director of the project.
Marat Korolyov expressed his support for the project and emphasized the importance of its implementation in Odesa. Oleksandra Bashkatova from “Hearts of Azovstal” highlighted the need for collaboration in organizing such events, as the project is volunteer-based and requires financial support. Valeria Demchenko discussed the artistic and social aspects of the performance, which recreates the real events of the defense of Mariupol.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the Primorsky District Administration of the Odesa City Council for their support and assistance in organizing the performance. Special thanks were given to “Hearts of Azovstal” for their comprehensive support of the project, and to Media Center Ukraine for facilitating the press conference.
We remind you that the premiere of “Azovstal. Voices” in Odesa will take place on November 16 at the Vasylko Ukrainian Theater. We invite everyone to join the event and support the project. Every viewer becomes part of the voice of truth that echoes from Mariupol.
On September 29, a special theatrical performance “Azovstal. Voices” was held, marking 500 days since the Mariupol defenders were taken captive by Russian forces after leaving the Azovstal plant. The event was organized by the “Holosy” Theater and the “Hearts of Azovstal” NGO, with the support of the Association of Families of Azovstal Defenders.
Among the audience were soldiers and defenders of Mariupol who had returned from captivity, as well as the relatives of servicemen still held in captivity. Directed by Valeria Demchenko, the performance brought together the monologues of eight heroes, each based on the stories of those who defended Mariupol and were later exchanged from captivity, as well as their relatives. The monologues were written by Ukrainian playwright and film director Khachatur Vasilyan, a native of Mariupol, whose family also endured the horrors of Russian occupation.
“The monologues were written by Khachatur Vasilyan, a Ukrainian playwright and film director. Khachatur is from Mariupol, and in 2022, his mother and brother survived the brutal Russian occupation, escaping at great personal cost. At our performances, we often have soldiers who survived captivity, many displaced persons, and they all thank us for sharing their pain and carrying it to the world. Our project will continue until the last Ukrainian prisoner returns home,” shared Olga Sobko, the project’s producer and actress.
According to the co-organizers, the “Hearts of Azovstal” NGO, the performance is another tool to share the heroic story of Mariupol’s defenders with the world and remind people that many are still in Russian captivity.
“Our goal is to make sure the world doesn’t forget that over 1,500 defenders of Mariupol have been in enemy captivity for 500 days. We emphasize the urgent need to bring every hero home. Projects like ‘Azovstal. Voices’ offer a powerful way to remind both our citizens and the international community of the heroism of the defenders of Mariupol, who fought for 86 days to protect the city. We have united our efforts to make this story heard worldwide. Theater is a medium that not only tells the story but also touches people’s hearts,” said Kseniya Sukhova, head of “Hearts of Azovstal”, which provides comprehensive support to Mariupol’s defenders.
Marina Sobotyuk, the creator and one of the initiators of the “Azovstal. Voices” project, shared her thoughts with the press: “Azovstal Voices inspires Ukrainians to unite and triumph, as they did at the beginning of the war. It evokes pride and admiration among Ukrainians abroad. This project is a reminder of the most important things today — that freedom and love are inseparable. This is the kind of content that should fill our media space today and go global.”
Valeria Demchenko, the director of the performance, highlighted the emotional depth of the production: “In dark times, we need bright performances. In our show, hundreds of voices — defenders, civilians sheltered in the steel bunkers of Azovstal, doctors, and pilots who broke through into the heart of darkness — come together with one mission: to tell the world the truth about 86 days of defense at Azovstal. Most importantly, we must ensure no one forgets about the Ukrainian prisoners who have been waiting 500 days to return home. We will keep speaking until the last Ukrainian prisoner is back home.”
The performance “Azovstal. Voices” continues to resonate deeply, carrying the story of Mariupol’s defenders to new audiences while advocating for the release of those still held in captivity.
On September 14, 2023, Uzhhorod witnessed a remarkable event — the theatrical performance “Azovstal. Voices,” dedicated to the heroic defense of Mariupol, took place on the city theater stage. The production left no one indifferent, filling the venue and evoking powerful emotional responses. The event was supported by the Department of Culture of the Zakarpattia Regional State Administration.
The performance, based on real events, portrays the struggle of the Mariupol defenders who held the line at the Azovstal plant during the darkest moments of the city’s siege. The actors skillfully conveyed the depth of emotions, the pain of loss, and the unbreakable spirit of the heroes who fought to the end for Ukraine’s freedom.
The audience was deeply moved by the power of the performance and the intensity of the emotions it evoked. Every word, every movement on stage resonated in the hearts of those present, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared sorrow for the fate of the defenders. Many could not hold back tears as they relived the tragedy and heroism depicted in the play.
“Azovstal. Voices” served as a powerful reminder of what is happening on the frontlines and the people fighting for the independence of our nation. One audience member noted, “This performance makes you think about the true cost of freedom. I felt every emotion, every fear, and every hope of the heroes.”
After the performance, the audience erupted into long applause. The audience stood in appreciation, thanking the actors for their skill and for allowing them to experience through art the events that have become a symbol of the indomitable Ukrainian spirit. Among the attendees were military personnel, volunteers, and displaced people from Mariupol, for whom this event held special significance.
One audience member shared her thoughts: “This is more than just a play. It’s a story about resilience, the strength of our people, and the things that should never be forgotten.” The performance left a deep mark in the hearts of the people of Uzhhorod, eliciting sincere gratitude toward the defenders.
Uzhhorod became yet another city to deeply feel the importance of this production. People left the theater with strong impressions, discussing what they had seen and expressing their support for the creators of the play. The performance became a significant event not only for the local community but also for everyone looking to preserve the memory of the heroes.
“Azovstal. Voices” continues its tour across Ukraine, carrying a vital message about the resilience and courage of Ukrainian soldiers.
On September 13, 2023, Mukachevo witnessed a significant event — the “Azovstal. Voices” performance, which gathered a full house and evoked a wave of emotions. The production, dedicated to the heroic defense of Mariupol and the resilience of its defenders, left a deep impression on everyone in attendance.
Based on real events, the play recreates the stories of those who held the line at the Azovstal plant during the darkest days of the siege. Through powerful monologues and dialogues, the actors masterfully conveyed the emotions, pain, fear, and hope of those caught in the center of the military conflict. The audience noted that every word and action on stage resonated deeply in their hearts.
The emotional tension in the hall remained high throughout the entire performance. Many viewers were moved to tears as they listened to the stories of the brutal trials endured by Mariupol’s defenders. Every moment of the performance sparked intense emotions and deep empathy.
The actors successfully conveyed the depth of human courage, the sacrifices made by the soldiers defending under relentless enemy pressure. The performance also served as a poignant reminder of those who continue to fight for Ukraine’s freedom.
“Azovstal. Voices” left no one untouched. Many left the theater deeply moved, feeling immense respect for the defenders and the weight of the ongoing struggle on the frontlines. One attendee remarked, “It was incredibly powerful. The performance made me rethink so many things. This is not just a story — this is our reality.”
After the performance, the hall erupted into applause as the audience expressed their gratitude to the actors for their skill and the emotional commitment with which they delivered their roles. Among the attendees were local residents as well as military personnel, for whom this performance was a special moment of unity.
Mukachevo became another city where the performance deeply resonated with the local community. People left the theater with a sense of gratitude and respect for the heroes defending Ukraine, as well as for the creators of the play, who preserve the memory of these events through art.
The “Azovstal. Voices” performance continues its tour across Ukraine, carrying an important message about the heroism and resilience of Ukrainian defenders.
On September 7, a press conference was held at the press center of the Zakarpattia Regional State Administration, focusing on the upcoming performances of the theatrical production “Azovstal. Voices” in the Zakarpattia region. This project, which recounts the heroic defense of Mariupol, has garnered significant attention across Ukraine and continues its tour through the cities of Western Ukraine.
Key speakers at the press conference included:
Yevhen Tyshchuk, Director of the Department of Culture at the Zakarpattia Regional State Administration, who expressed his support for the project and emphasized its importance in preserving the memory of the heroes of Mariupol.
Valeria Demchenko, the project’s director, shared insights into the production process and its mission, noting that through art, not only can stories be told, but they can also be deeply felt and understood.
Olga Sobko, the project’s producer and actress, discussed the challenges the team faced in bringing the production to life, as well as the overwhelming support they’ve received from across the country.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the Zakarpattia Military Administration for their assistance and support in organizing the performances. Special thanks were extended to Yevhen Tyshchuk for facilitating the project’s tour in Zakarpattia.
The “Azovstal. Voices” performance will be staged in three cities in Zakarpattia:
September 13 – Mukachevo,
September 14 – Uzhhorod,
September 15 – Khust.
These performances promise to be significant cultural events for the region’s residents. Through the stories of Mariupol’s defenders, the production transports audiences into the heart of the events that have become a symbol of the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit.
“Azovstal. Voices” is a multimedia theatrical performance—a reflection and “therapy,” as described by Serhiy Kaliberda, commander of the “Azov” brigade who fought in the Battle for Mariupol and endured captivity.
We invite you to join us for this special evening, to embrace, smile, cry, and look into each other’s eyes. “Azovstal. Voices” is a bright, heartwarming story filled with faith, hope, and strength about the 86 days of defending Mariupol. It has already captivated audiences worldwide! The most recent international performance took place in Geneva, Switzerland, before representatives of international missions and UN ambassadors.
This performance is a space and a moment for everyone who cares, who feels the pain, and who wants to shout to the world, to once again remind everyone that our soldiers are still in Russian captivity. It has been over a year since we’ve been waiting for them to return home.
In the play, the collective images of Azovstal’s defenders are brought to life. We must speak with the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves. This is a story about us—Ukrainians—and our war for the right to be a free people.
The heroes must live on! And they live through the voices of those who remember and believe. Today, thousands of Ukrainians remain in captivity. We call on the world for more attention and action regarding the fate of those who, at the cost of their own lives, defend our land.
We must continue to speak out. Speak to the whole world!
On June 23rd, a heartwarming event took place in Bilbao, Basque Country—the Ukrainian Poetry Evening, organized in collaboration with Asociación “Ucrania-Euskadi.” The evening brought together Ukrainians and Spaniards, united by their shared desire to discover the beauty of Ukrainian poetry and connect through deep emotions expressed in verse.
The talented actress Olga Sobko graced the stage, reading poems by both Ukrainian and international poets, translated into Ukrainian. The poems touched on themes that resonate with every individual—love, hope, dreams, faith, and freedom. With her evocative voice, Olga Sobko conveyed the depth of these emotions, filling the room with warmth and sincerity.
Thanks to the collaboration with BBK Kuna, the event was held in a cozy and central space in the city, with an audience that included Ukrainians, as well as friends, volunteers, and members of the Basque community.
Our Ukrainian poetry is a reflection of our history. The resonance of this evening stays with us to this day. For some, it was their first encounter with Ukrainian poetry; for others, it was a return home. For many of us, it became an opportunity to pause and experience emotions that had been set aside for later. Ukrainian poetry is a reflection of our history—love, pain, despair, wisdom, courage, and constant struggle. The art of living.
To make the evening accessible to all, every poem was accompanied by Spanish subtitles, allowing the Spanish audience to fully grasp the meaning of each line and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the event. This important element enabled the Spaniards not only to listen but to feel Ukrainian poetry as if they were reading it in their native language.
The program was filled with touching and powerful moments. The poems echoed themes of love—for family, homeland, and freedom. Hope and dreams, which sustain people even in the most difficult times, inspired everyone present to reflect on their own lives. The belief in a better future and the unyielding fight for freedom were the central themes of the evening, bringing tears to many listeners.
The Ukrainian diaspora in Bilbao expressed their gratitude for the chance to reconnect with their culture through poetry. Spaniards, encountering Ukrainian literature for the first time, were deeply moved by the depth and emotion in the works. “It was an evening of unity, where words became a bridge between cultures,” shared one guest.
Events like this demonstrate the power of art to unite people, regardless of their background or language. The Ukrainian Poetry Evening in Bilbao was a true celebration of the soul, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who attended.
Audience feedback confirmed that poetry is a powerful way to express deep emotions and thoughts, especially when performed with such sensitivity and sincerity, as Olga Sobko did. The evening ended with prolonged applause, and guests continued to discuss the poems, sharing their impressions and gratitude for this unforgettable event.
This occasion is yet another reminder that through culture and art, we can build strong bonds between nations and open new chapters in our shared human experience.
On May 20, 2023, a powerful theatrical performance titled “Azovstal. Voices” was staged at the Ukrainian House in Kyiv. This emotionally charged production, dedicated to the heroic defense of Mariupol and marking the anniversary of the Azovstal defenders’ captivity, drew a full house. Among the audience were not only Kyiv residents but also those who had lived through the tragedy firsthand—fighters from the Azov Regiment, veterans from Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (GUR), and renowned military photographer Dmytro Kozatsky, who had also spent months in Russian captivity.
The performance deeply moved everyone present, as it captured the stories of those who fought valiantly during the brutal siege of Mariupol. Particularly emotional were the moments when real-life testimonies echoed on stage, bringing many to tears and serving as a powerful reminder of the incredible heroism of Ukrainian soldiers. The actors skillfully conveyed the tension, pain, and unbreakable spirit of the defenders, making the performance truly unforgettable.
What made the event even more significant was the presence of those who had personally endured captivity. The Azov fighters praised the project, emphasizing that the play conveyed not only the facts but also the emotional states of the people who fought to the very end. Dmytro Kozatsky shared his impressions: “This is not just a performance—it is our story, which must be heard and preserved for future generations.”
“Azovstal. Voices” received high praise from the audience, who left the theater deeply moved. Many highlighted the immense importance of this work in preserving the memory of the defense of Mariupol and the valor of the defenders who withstood such brutal trials.
One veteran who attended the performance remarked, “It was like reliving those days. They managed to show our pain, our fear, but also our strength.” Other attendees echoed their gratitude to the actors and directors for their deep understanding of the theme and the masterful way they brought these events to life on stage.
The play “Azovstal. Voices” continues its tour across Ukraine, bringing the stories of Mariupol’s heroes to every corner of the country.
An Evening of Ukrainian Poetry in Collaboration with Asociación “Ucrania-Euskadi” in Bilbao
In partnership with Asociación “Ucrania-Euskadi,” we are delighted to present a special event—an Evening of Ukrainian Poetry in Bilbao. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich world of Ukrainian literature and experience the emotional resonance of poetry that brings together themes of love, hope, dreams, faith, and freedom.
The evening will be highlighted by a performance from the talented actress Olga Sobko, who will skillfully read the works of Ukrainian poets, as well as pieces by foreign authors translated into Ukrainian. Her performances are always a deeply emotional experience that prompts reflection and allows the audience to feel the power of the spoken word. To make the event accessible to all guests, all texts will be accompanied by Spanish subtitles, allowing the Spanish-speaking audience to fully appreciate and feel the meaning and beauty of each line.
The program will be filled with profound emotions and thoughts. You will hear poetry about love—from the most intimate emotions to the love for one’s homeland, about hopes for a brighter future, about dreams that drive us forward, about the faith that helps overcome challenges, and about the freedom that is always worth fighting for. These are poems that touch the deepest corners of the soul and leave a lasting impact on the heart of every listener.
This event offers a wonderful opportunity not only for Ukrainians but also for Spaniards to experience the spirit of Ukrainian culture, learn more about our history through poetic expression, and share common values. Poetry is a bridge between cultures, and we are happy to open these doors for you.
Don’t miss this touching evening filled with inspiration and the beauty of Ukrainian words. We eagerly await your presence to help create an unforgettable atmosphere of unity and spiritual connection.
On February 20, 2023, the “Azovstal. Voices” performance took place in Lviv at the First Theater, dedicated to the heroic defense of Mariupol. The event drew a full house, with an audience including Mariupol refugees, youth, families, and all those deeply moved by the story of the defenders of the Azovstal plant. The performance left a strong impression on everyone present and was highly praised for its deep and emotional portrayal of events that have already become a symbol of the Ukrainian people’s resilience.
The actors skillfully conveyed the emotional tension, pain, and hope of those who remained in besieged Mariupol, holding their defense under inhumane conditions. Each moment of the play filled the hall with emotion, bringing tears and deep empathy from the audience.
Particularly moving were the reactions from Mariupol refugees, who noted that the play accurately reflected their feelings and the pain they had endured. “It’s like reliving those terrible days again, but at the same time, it gives strength and hope,” shared one of the Mariupol residents who attended the performance.
Many young audience members commented that the play helped them better understand the scale of the tragedy that occurred in Mariupol and filled them with pride for those who fought to the end. “This is important for our generation, so we remember and never forget this heroic act,” said one student in attendance.
After the performance, the audience erupted into prolonged applause, thanking the actors for their skill and the emotional charge they delivered through the art of theater. The performance left a deep mark on everyone present, and many were unable to hold back tears.
The refugees who attended expressed their gratitude to the organizers for the opportunity to hear the voices of those who survived the siege and maintained their indomitable spirit. The production served as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the memory of these events and continuing to speak about the heroism of Ukraine’s defenders.
“Azovstal. Voices” became another landmark event in Lviv, bringing people together through art and ensuring the memory of the defense of Mariupol endures.
