The Odesa Academic Ukrainian Musical and Dramatic Theater named after V. Vasylyk has celebrated its centenary. The theater shared this milestone on its social media platforms.

On November 7, 1925, a theater emerged in Odesa, which became a vital cultural hub for the Ukrainian community in our city. Throughout its century-long journey, it has experienced various phases: the experimentation of the 1920s, the pressure of the 1930s, wartime evacuation, post-war revival, independence, economic challenges, and an explosion of new creative ideas.

The first artistic director was Mark Tereshchenko, and in the second season, the theater was led by Vasyl Vasylyk — a renowned director whose contributions are etched in global theatrical history. Over decades, his innovative spirit was supported by diverse theater troupes.

In its first three years, the theater presented 34 premieres, including “Viy,” “For Two Hares,” “Haydamaky,” and “Marusia Bohuslavka.” By the 1930s, it had transformed into a true center of theatrical life, showcasing the most famous actors and directors of the time.

During wartime, the theater was evacuated, but it returned home in 1944, coinciding with Odesa’s liberation. Ukrainian language once again echoed under the shattered chandeliers, and the post-war era became a time of spiritual uplift — classics like “Natalka Poltavka,” “Stolen Happiness,” and “Forest Song” were revived on stage.

In the 1990s, despite all the challenges of independence, the theater managed to preserve the Ukrainian language on its stage and remained a realm of creative freedom. Today, under the leadership of Yulia Pyvovarova, it masterfully blends classic works with contemporary drama — texts by Olha Kobylianska and Shakespeare, Hotsy and Vorozhbit resonate on its stage.

The modern chapter of the theater’s story includes premieres in shelters, international co-productions, jazz performances in the Greek Hall, and young talents alongside established artists.

The Vasylyk Theater symbolizes light even in darkness.
It represents the Ukrainian language that fills the theater.
It embodies beauty, truth, and strength that sustain us in the toughest times.
We thank everyone who has contributed to these 100 years.
Inspiration to those who will create the next ones.
Happy anniversary, our beloved Odesa Theater!
May the stage always shine, and the hall be filled to capacity! — the theater’s message reads.

Artists have also invited their admirers to celebrate together: on November 8 for the performance “Hello, Monster!” and on November 9 for the “Neapolitan Passions.”