The Azovstal. Voices team is proud to announce the successful performance of our theatrical play, which took place on November 2 on the stage of the Dovzhenko Center. This event became a significant occasion, bringing together artists, members of the public, and guests to honor the heroism and resilience of the defenders of Mariupol.
The play was the result of a collaboration between the projects Azovstal. Voices and Mariupol Unbroken, both dedicated to supporting and shedding light on the bravery of Ukrainian soldiers who endured captivity and the struggles faced by their families.
During the performance, heartfelt monologues and acts resonated deeply with everyone present, reminding us of the courage and strength of our heroes. Special guests—including veterans, relatives of the soldiers, and honorary attendees—helped foster a sense of unity that filled the hall, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting Ukraine’s defenders.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our General Media Partner, Apostrophe Media, for ensuring wide coverage of this event. We also thank our media partners, Poglyad Media, TV 7 Media, and the KyivVlada portal, for their invaluable support in amplifying our voices to the community.
This performance was more than just a theatrical event—it was a gathering of like-minded individuals united by the goal of supporting our heroes and reminding everyone of the unyielding spirit of the Ukrainian people during challenging times.
On May 19, 2024, “Azovstal. Voices” was performed at SCENA 6 in the Dovzhenko Center in Kyiv, commemorating the second anniversary of the captivity of Mariupol’s defenders. The event drew a large audience, including displaced people from Mariupol, young people, families, soldiers from the Azov Regiment, and those who had personally survived captivity. It was an emotionally charged performance, forcing everyone to relive the pain and heroism of those who held the line at Azovstal.
The actors skillfully portrayed the drama faced by the people of Mariupol, caught in the midst of tragedy. Each story was filled with pain and despair, but also with the unbreakable hope that sustained the city’s defenders. The production deeply moved the audience, bringing many to tears and evoking genuine empathy for those still held in Russian captivity.
The performance had a particularly profound impact on those who had experienced captivity themselves. One audience member, who had been imprisoned for over a year, remarked: “This is more than just a play — it’s our story, one that must never be forgotten. It’s a reminder that the fight continues.” The performance also deeply resonated with young people, who responded enthusiastically and expressed their gratitude to the defenders for their sacrifice.
Displaced residents from Mariupol in attendance expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to once again hear the “voices” of those who defended their city. They noted that events like this help preserve the memory of the fallen and support those who remain in captivity.
Following the performance, the hall was filled with prolonged applause, as the audience rose to their feet to thank the actors for their dedication to the theme and for telling the story of Mariupol through art. Many in the audience could not hold back tears as they grasped the depth of the tragedy that has touched thousands of Ukrainians.
This performance served as an important reminder not only for Ukraine but for the world, that thousands of Ukrainians remain in captivity. “Azovstal. Voices” continues to carry the stories of Mariupol’s heroes to the world, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who fight for their country.
We will not stop reminding the world that the struggle continues, and that thousands of Ukrainians are still waiting for their freedom.
On January 26, 2024, the powerful theatrical performance “Azovstal. Voices” took place at the Mykolaichuk Center in Chernivtsi. This cultural event became a profound occasion, drawing the attention of both local residents and guests to one of the most tragic yet heroic chapters of the war – the defense of Mariupol. The performance left a deep impact on the audience, stirring a wave of emotions and leaving no one indifferent.
The hall was filled with people eager to hear the stories of true heroes, those who fought to the end for their city at the Azovstal plant. Audience members noted the emotional depth of the performance and its ability to transport everyone to the heart of the events that have become a symbol of the indomitable Ukrainian spirit. The tragedy of Mariupol, reflected through real stories, moved many to tears and left a profound sense of respect for the defenders.
The actors skillfully brought to life each story, each voice of the defenders who stood against the enemy onslaught, holding the line in inhumane conditions. The play, based on real events, intertwined the memories of soldiers, volunteers, medics, and ordinary citizens who remained in the besieged city. Through sound, lighting, and the actors’ impressive performances, the feelings of despair, fear, and pain were vividly conveyed to everyone present.
At the end of the performance, the hall erupted in applause. The audience stood to express their gratitude and support not only to the actors but also to the real heroes whose stories formed the foundation of this production. Many in the audience could not hold back tears, feeling both the pain and pride for the Ukrainian defenders who fought to the last.
One attendee shared their impressions: “This performance is not just a story about war; it’s a story about humanity, courage, and sacrifice. It makes you reflect on the values of freedom and truth that people fought for in Mariupol.” Others noted that such cultural events are incredibly important because, through art, we preserve the memory of heroic events and pass them on to future generations.
What made this event particularly significant was the presence of both locals from Chernivtsi and people from other regions, as well as soldiers and veterans who had experienced the horrors of war themselves. For them, this event was an opportunity to feel the ongoing support and gratitude from a society that has not forgotten their sacrifice.
The Mykolaichuk Center in Chernivtsi became a platform not only for cultural dialogue but also for collective reflection on the national tragedy and the heroism of the Ukrainian people. After the performance, many audience members remained in the foyer to discuss what they had seen, sharing their emotions and impressions. Some expressed the importance of continuing such events, which remind us of what our heroes fought for.
“Azovstal. Voices” continues its journey across Ukraine, filling theaters and evoking powerful emotions. It is not only an artistic reflection of events but also a significant social message about the resilience and courage of Ukrainians. Chernivtsi became yet another city to experience the full impact of this production, and without a doubt, this will remain in the memory of everyone who attended this cultural event.
Further performances are planned in other cities across Ukraine, ensuring that more people can connect with the story that is a part of our shared fight for freedom.
On November 16, 2023, the “Azovstal. Voices” performance took place at the Vasylko Ukrainian Theater in Odesa, dedicated to the heroic defense of Mariupol. The event sparked significant interest among Odesa residents and visitors. The performance, based on real events and the memories of the defenders of Azovstal, left an overwhelming impression on the audience, leaving no one indifferent.
The theater was packed, and the atmosphere was filled with emotional tension. The audience followed every word and movement of the actors, who conveyed the pain, loss, and at the same time, the unbreakable faith of the heroes in victory. The performance not only highlighted the tragic events of the siege of Mariupol but also showcased the indomitable spirit of Ukrainians who fought to the very end for their land.
Audience members left the theater deeply moved. Many were unable to hold back tears after hearing the stories of the defenders who faced unimaginable trials in inhumane conditions. To feel this pain and heroism through art is what makes “Azovstal. Voices” an especially important production for Ukrainian society.
One audience member shared, “This performance made me feel every moment, every act of bravery by these people. This is not just theater – it’s living history that reminds us what they fought for.” Audience feedback was filled with admiration and gratitude to the actors for their masterful portrayal of real events.
In addition to Odesa residents, the performance was attended by military representatives, volunteers, and displaced persons from Mariupol, for whom this event held special significance. The performance not only depicted the events that occurred during the defense but also raised important questions about human fate, courage, and resilience in the face of tragedy.
The “Azovstal. Voices” performance continues its cultural tour across Ukraine, bringing the story of Mariupol and its heroes to every corner of the country.
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.
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.
