In Mariupol on March 16, 2022, an airstrike hit the Donetsk Academic Regional Drama Theater while hundreds of individuals, including civilians seeking refuge from the invasion, were present. The incident, which resulted in casualties, is believed by legal experts to be a war crime with compelling evidence pointing to a Russian attack on the theater. Despite Moscow’s denial of responsibility and attribution of blame to Ukraine, investigations suggest otherwise.
Recently, Russian-appointed officials claim to have reconstructed and upgraded the theater, now almost prepared to host audiences of up to 500 people. While they present it as a meticulous restoration of a cherished cultural landmark, displaced Ukrainians view it as an act of disrespect.
Actor Ihor Kytrysh, who performed at the Mariupol theater for years and now resides in western Ukraine, expressed his dismay, equating performing at the restored theater to disrespecting the deceased.
Russian state media announced the theater’s official reopening on December 25, with performances scheduled to commence in the new year. Meanwhile, the Mariupol theater troupe continues its productions at alternate locations during the holidays.
The restoration of the theater has been extensively promoted by Russia, emphasizing the careful reconstruction process that preserved the historic facade. Renamed the Mariupol Republican Order of the Badge of Honour Russian Drama Theatre, the authorities highlight its revival alongside the city’s reconstruction efforts.
Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022, the theater was struck, leading to varying estimates of casualties. Amnesty International reported that Russian aircraft likely carried out the attack with two 500-kilogram bombs. Subsequently, Russian forces swiftly occupied the city center.
Actor Kytrysh and his family evacuated to Berdyansk a day before the bombing, eventually relocating to Uzhhorod. They have been staging plays across Ukraine and beyond, narrating the stories of survivors and the profound loss experienced by those forced to flee Mariupol.
Kytrysh, advocating for a monument instead of reopening the theater, disclosed that while he lost touch with Mariupol residents, some actors and administrators opted to remain despite the occupation.
The theater’s website recounts its history, citing its destruction during World War II and subsequent reopening in 1960. Despite the challenges faced in 2022, the theater now showcases renowned Russian and Soviet classics.
In response to criticism from Ukrainians regarding the theater’s reopening, cultural director Igor Solonin dismissed concerns by drawing parallels to European cities built on past conflicts. He announced a gala on December 25 to honor the reconstruction contributors.
Former Mariupol resident Serhii Kesarev, who witnessed the theater’s destruction, emphasized its significance to the city. Following their relocation to Kyiv, Kesarev expressed reluctance to visit the restored theater, citing the inappropriateness of celebrations at the site of a tragedy.