Controversy Surrounds the Play 'Chervona Ruta'
Anatoliy Khostikoyev, a People's Artist of Ukraine, has strongly criticized the play "Chervona Ruta," which was nominated for the 2025 Taras Shevchenko National Prize by the Maria Zankovetska Lviv National Drama Theatre. Khostikoyev argues that the production contains false claims about prominent figures in Ukrainian theater—director Serhiy Danchenko and artist Myroslav Kypriyan—portraying them in a negative light. This debate highlights ongoing tensions in Ukraine's cultural sector over how historical figures are represented on stage.
According to the play's plot, Danchenko and Kypriyan allegedly offered Volodymyr Ivasyuk money to withdraw from the Shevchenko Prize competition. Khostikoyev, who began his career at the Lviv Maria Zankovetska Theatre, emphasized that such depictions are pure fiction. He stated:
“The authors needed negative characters to elevate the genius composer even more against their backdrop. But not through lies!” — Anatoliy Khostikoyev
The play "Chervona Ruta" is already touring cities across Ukraine, with upcoming performances scheduled in Kyiv, including at the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre and the Zhovtnevy Palace (International Centre for Culture and Arts).
Concerns Over Theater History
Khostikoyev also criticized the play's creators for what he sees as defiling Danchenko's name and legacy. He emphasized:
“How the hell did it happen that ignoramuses, illiterates, and mankurts managed to defile the name and memory of a great man and director?” — Anatoliy Khostikoyev
The artist expressed alarm over how the history and traditions of Ukrainian theater could be distorted. He asked:
- “How can we, while an age-old enemy seeks to destroy us, humiliate, level, destroy, twist history, and diminish the achievements and traditions built by previous generations?”
Anatoliy Khostikoyev, known for his roles in Serhiy Danchenko's productions such as "Stolen Happiness," "Richard III," and "The Standard-Bearers," stressed that 'no prize was given to anyone.' He thus called for greater responsibility in portraying historical figures and events in Ukrainian theatrical art.
This controversy underscores the need for a careful approach when depicting historical personalities in theater, as perceptions of the past can significantly shape contemporary cultural consciousness. The play "Chervona Ruta" has sparked discussion not only among artists but also in broader society, emphasizing the necessity for objectivity and accuracy in the artistic reflection of Ukraine's history.
The ongoing debate over artistic integrity in Ukrainian theater is further complicated by personal disputes among actors. Recently, a Ukrainian actor publicly criticized a colleague for their relationship with a fellow actress, highlighting the intricate dynamics within the industry. Such controversies not only reflect personal grievances but also raise broader questions about the portrayal of historical figures in contemporary productions.