Full Breakdown
Wounded Ukrainian Veterans Transform Epic Poetry into Living Testimony
2/21/2026, 12:22:49 PM
The Premiere of "Eneida" in Kyiv
On February 19, 2026, Ukrainian war veterans premiered a unique theatrical adaptation of "Eneida," an 18th-century reimagining of Virgil's "Aeneid," at the National Academic Molodyy Theatre in Kyiv. Directed by Olha Semioshkina, the production features veterans who have returned from combat with severe injuries, including amputations and burns, reflecting their resilience in the face of ongoing conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24, 2022. The preparation for the performance spanned over a year, focusing initially on basic movement and communication skills, with actors practicing without prosthetics to reconnect with their bodies.
Thematic Resonance and Personal Stories
Semioshkina's vision for the play was to have every male actor embody Aeneas and every female actor represent Dido, symbolizing the struggles and search for home faced by those affected by war. Veteran Yehor Babenko, who suffered severe burns, expressed that the theater experience has been both a psychological and physical rehabilitation journey for him. He noted, “For me, theater is both psychological and physical rehabilitation. I’ve noticed I feel my body better, feel more confident in public, express my thoughts better.”
The final act of the performance diverged from the epic narrative, allowing actors to share their personal stories of loss and survival. One veteran recounted losing his leg in a drone strike, while another shared experiences of living under Russian occupation. Andrii Onopriienko, who lost his sight in a Russian artillery strike, narrated much of the performance and joined in song, emphasizing the collective experience of trauma and recovery.
The Impact of War on the Performance
The realities of war were palpable throughout the performance. Before the show, the audience was cautioned about potential air raid sirens and blackouts. During one performance, the power went out, yet the actors continued, using flashlights to illuminate the stage. The audience remained engaged, some visibly emotional, and responded with a standing ovation at the conclusion of the performance. Semioshkina highlighted the importance of connection, urging veterans watching from home to step out and engage with life despite their scars, stating, “Come out. You can do something. Live. Don’t close yourself off. Live every single minute.”
Conclusion: A Message of Hope
The adaptation of "Eneida" serves not only as a theatrical performance but as a powerful testament to the resilience of Ukrainian veterans. It blends myth with the stark realities of modern warfare, offering a platform for healing and self-expression. The production underscores the importance of community and support among veterans, reinforcing the message that even in the darkest times, there is hope and the possibility of renewal through shared experiences and storytelling.
