Ukraine Play Marks Invasion Anniversary

The play is penned by Polina Polozhentseva, a Ukrainian playwright who has been based in London for three years. Her work often blends dark humour with the stark realities of conflict, with previous plays staged at Kyiv's Wild Theatre and London's Barons Court Theatre. *The Village Where No One Suffers* uses magical realism to tell the story of Lukyana, a young woman who returns to her deceased grandmother's home in a war-torn part of Ukraine. The plot explores themes of personal conflict, tradition, and the supernatural, suggesting the grandmother's powers as a witch had protected the village from harm. The production is one of several cultural events in London marking the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion. Other events included a public commemoration in Trafalgar Square and "Ukraine Unbroken," a series of five short plays by British and Ukrainian writers at the Arcola Theatre. The Jack Studio in Brockley, where the play is running, has a history of championing new writing, particularly from artists connected to south-east London. The 50-seat venue provides a platform for emerging playwrights and often supports companies producing their first shows. Since 2022, numerous UK arts organisations have offered support to Ukrainian artists, including residencies, financial aid, and platforms to showcase their work. Groups like the Ukrainian Cultural Association in the UK and Finborough Theatre's #VoicesFromUkraine series have been central to promoting Ukrainian culture and providing a voice for its artists. Globally, the anniversary was marked by rallies and services. Churches from Bern to Jerusalem held prayers for peace, while the Council of Europe in Strasbourg lit its main building in the colours of the Ukrainian flag.