The interactive, free Christmas play “Speaking Are Those Who Have Listened to Eternity” for children and adults, organized by the Olena Zelenska Foundation, concluded at the National Conservation Area “Saint Sophia of Kyiv.” Over 4 thousand viewers attended the event in 10 days.
“I’m glad that both children and adults enjoyed the format and theme of the holiday performance. The play “Speaking Are Those Who Have Listened to Eternity” truly captured the magic of Christmas and the historical spirit. Saint Sophia Cathedral appeared in a completely new, enchanting role, bridging generations. I sincerely hope there will be more such events to inspire our children to appreciate Ukrainian history,” said Olena Zelenska.
The play transported viewers back to the era of Kyivan Rus. The walls of Saint Sophia Cathedral became living witnesses to the history of our ancestors, reflected in more than 7,000 graffiti.
Some of these graffiti were brought to life using 3D technology, enhancing the performance with visual effects. Live acting, authentic costumes, choral singing, and a light show created a magical Christmas atmosphere.
The Foundation arranged special groups for 1,000 children from foster and large foster families in the Kyiv region, as well as children supported by NGOs and charitable organizations, including Vidchui, Voices of Children, Children of Heroes, and the Oleksandr Pikalov Charitable Fund.
“The organization of the play “Speaking Are Those Who Have Listened to Eternity” marked the Foundation’s first cultural project of this scale. We hope it will become the start of a new tradition. Events like this teach children to understand and value the history of their country,” emphasized Nina Horbachova, Director of the Olena Zelenska Foundation.
The play was made possible with the support of Sense Bank. The play was created by Ukrainian director Olena Koliadenko, and the whole team worked on the production: screenwriter Ihor Frankel, assistant director Denys Salo, set designer Tetiana Kantemirova, costume designer Lesia Patoka, composer Dmytro Saratskyi, 3D mapping specialist and animation artist Oleksandr Serbin.
The voice of the project is People's Artist of Ukraine, theater, film, and dubbing actor Vasyl Mazur.
Performers included ensembles from the Kyiv Palace for Children and Youth: the Dzvinochok choral chapel and the Vohnyk girls’ choir.