Veterans Use Theater to Reintegrate into Civilian Life
The veterans’ theater in Chernihiv helps servicemen adapt to civilian life using art as a form of therapy. Ruslan Ivanov, a veteran of the Russo-Ukrainian War, shared how participating in the theater troupe helped him recover after losing an arm in the war.
Before the full-scale invasion, Ruslan Ivanov worked as a set designer, preparing decorations for film and television. On February 24, 2022, upon hearing explosions, he left his job and volunteered for the territorial defense. After a severe injury during combat, Ruslan lost his right arm, which was a challenging ordeal for him and his loved ones.
Amid these events, the veterans’ theater was founded in Chernihiv under the leadership of Yuriy Vetkin, who also lost a leg during a mortar attack. Vetkin decided to create a cultural space for veterans where they can share their stories and support one another. The theater was named “VOP” – “Veteran Artistic Space”.
The plays staged at the theater are based on the personal stories of veterans and their families. They share the difficulties they faced on the front lines and the recovery from war injuries. Since its founding, the theater has already presented several performances, including internationally, helping to raise funds to support Ukrainian troops.
The theater not only serves as a center for cultural activities but also as a platform for rehabilitation and social integration. Ruslan Ivanov notes that thanks to rehearsals, his memory, weakened by concussions, has improved, and interaction with colleagues has helped him not to withdraw into himself. Veterans speak openly about their experiences, making it easier to cope with traumatic memories and adapt to life.
The reactions to the “VOP” theater’s performances are generally positive, and more veterans and their families want to join the project. Meanwhile, Ruslan continues to work on new projects and believes in the power of creativity as a means of healing and social integration.
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Performances | Over 4 |
| Countries of Performances | Ukraine, Ireland |
| Number of Participants | Veterans, their families, relatives of the deceased |
