A dark musical comedy about witches has Ukraine enthralled. Here's why

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https://www.npr.org/2024/08/18/nx-s1-5074005/ukraine-witch-of-konotop-theater
(6 min audio at link)

A dark musical comedy about witches has Ukraine enthralled. Here's why

AUGUST 18, 2024 6:00 AM ET
Ashley Westerman



A scene from a Ukrainian production of The Witch of Konotop. At the window, Olena, played by Mariia Rudynska, is the love interest of the main character but does not love him back. And a three-witch chorus is seen right.
Ivan Franko Theater

KYIV, Ukraine — Witches are having a moment in Ukraine. Both feared and revered, these beings are thought to possess supernatural powers that can be used for good and bad. Over the centuries, witches have been blamed for all kinds of things happening to Ukrainians: droughts, floods, diseases — even falling in love and starting wars.

Now they have taken center stage in a dark musical comedy titled The Witch of Konotop, with performances selling out all summer at the historic Ivan Franko Theater in the capital Kyiv.

Folklore brought to life
Based on the 1833 satirical fiction by Ukrainian writer Hryhorii Kvitka-Osnovianenko, the story pokes fun at Ukrainian literature’s tendency to focus on sadness and tragedy. It takes place in the 1600s and follows the main character, Zabryokha, a Cossack military leader, in his unsuccessful journey to do away with witches whom he blames for his misfortunes.

Throughout the fast-paced, witty hour-and-a-half production, the audience is treated to beautifully detailed Ukrainian folk costumes and stunning vocals set to traditional Ukrainian music.

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[ariadne0614]

1. The article at the link is worth reading.

Thanks for posting. I especially like the part that explains the resurgence of interest in Ukrainian culture since the Putin invasion:

(snip)

“There’s been an overall push to celebrate Ukrainian culture and literature since Russia’s invasion. Putin has repeatedly said victory means nothing short of Ukraine not just losing its sovereignty — but also its identity’”

(snip)

“There’s been an overall push to celebrate Ukrainian culture and literature since Russia’s invasion. Putin has repeatedly said victory means nothing short of Ukraine not just losing its sovereignty — but also its identity.”

[SheilaAnn]

2. For all that these folks have been through I'm so glad they have some joy in their lives. n/t