Karazin University Community Joined a Frank Discussion on Creativity in Frontline Kharkiv with Director Oksana Dmytriieva

On May 1, 2026, an open talk with Oksana Dmytriieva, Chief Director of the V. Afanasiev Kharkiv Puppet Theatre, Honoured Artist of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, and laureate of the Shevchenko National Prize, took place at the “KnyhoUkryttia” bookstore-café founded by publisher Oleksandr Savchuk.

The event was organized by the “KnyhoUkryttia” bookstore-café of Oleksandr Savchuk Publishing House together with the Department of History of Culture and Philosophy of Science of the Education and Research Institute of Philosophy, Cultural Studies and Political Science of Karazin University.

At the centre of the discussion was puppet theatre as a form of adult art capable of addressing themes of trauma, memory, and imagination, as well as the experience of creating performances in frontline Kharkiv. The director spoke about the challenges faced by artists and, at the same time, about the power of theatre as a space for support and reflection on reality.

Special attention was paid to the topic of Crimea as an important part of the director’s personal and cultural biography, as well as to issues of cultural diplomacy — the role of art in presenting the Ukrainian experience on the international stage and fostering dialogue through culture.

During the open talk, participants also discussed professional development in puppet theatre. The audience learned more about the specifics of directing, education, and opportunities for growth in this field.

The event became a platform for a deep and sincere conversation about art in times of war and its significance for society today.