As Ukraine grapples with the ongoing war and its impact on youth, a summer acting course led by Olesia Korzhenevska becomes a beacon of hope for teenagers like Sasha Suchyk, who struggle with mental health challenges stemming from the conflict.
A Light in the Dark: Ukrainian Teenagers Find Hope Through Acting
A Light in the Dark: Ukrainian Teenagers Find Hope Through Acting
In Kyiv, a summer acting class offers struggling teens a chance to heal and dream amidst the turmoil of war.
In the heart of Kyiv, a summer acting class is emerging as a transformative opportunity for teenagers amidst the prolonged turmoil caused by the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Led by instructor Olesia Korzhenevska, the course aims to cultivate a space for young people to reclaim their dreams and aspirations in a country shadowed by adversity.
The impact of the pandemic and ongoing war has left many teens isolated and fearful, with some losing touch with the joys of childhood. This was the case for 16-year-old Sasha Suchyk, who struggled with his mental health for over a year. After dropping out of the same acting class, he ended up in a mental health facility where he faced debilitating depression, exacerbated by the external chaos surrounding him.
Despite his challenges, Sasha's journey took a turn when his mother reached out to Korzhenevska, ultimately allowing him to join the class and step back into a world of creativity. This initiative is not just about the art of acting but rather about rebuilding hope and connection in a generation marked by trauma. As rehearsals for their original play, "It's okay!" unfold, these teenagers find solace and resilience through the expressive power of performance, proving that even in the darkest times, hope can be reignited.
