Theme of love and like in the Ukrainian theater during the Russian‑Ukrainian war: Cultural review

Abstract

The article highlights the importance of local theater in Ukrainian society during the Russo‑Ukrainian war using the example of theaters in the city of Dnipro (Dnipropetrovsk Oblast). In particular, an analysis of modern Ukrainian theatrical performances on the theme of love, during the Fall of 2022. Separate elements of scenography were considered, and a great deal of symbolism was revealed within the content of the performances, where the values and the deep essence of Ukrainian culture are embedded. Common features of the analyzed performances were found, which emphasize the vitality of the Ukrainian theater cultural traditions. At the same time, the aspect of interaction between the audience and the theater was analyzed. The research methodology is determined by cultural and axiological approaches. The method of observation and analysis was applied during a "live" viewing of performances in Ukrainian theaters. At the same time, the method of cultural analogy was used to compare the conditions of existence, phenomena and processes, and cultural traditions in Ukrainian theaters of various forms. The psychological‑semiotic method contributed to the ideal study of the reactivity of the Ukrainian theater, namely, the identification and study of the causes and characteristics of behavior, moral and psychological aspects of characters, and creative realization of directors and actors with an active public position. Synchronous and diachronic analysis made it possible to compare the capabilities of Ukrainian theaters as spiritual educators of society. As a result of the study, it was found that the Ukrainian theater featuring a great national ideal is a fingerprint of society and the heart of the nation in general. Ukrainian theaters play an educational and enlightening role, support the audience on a spiritual level, activate a surge of national fighting spirit, andembody the desire for victory and the desire to live in happiness.