Pavlo Tekuchev Reflects on Ukrainian Cinema and Theater
Pavlo Tekuchev, a 29-year-old actor at the Lesya Ukrainka National Theater, has shared his insights on starring in the film 'Vichnyk,' his theatrical career, and the state of Ukrainian arts during wartime. In 'Vichnyk,' based on the novel by Myroslav Dochynets, Tekuchev portrays the lead role of Andrii Voron, a character who lives to 104, surviving war and Siberian imprisonment. To prepare, the actor lost 10 kilograms, and the film's production spanned nine months, following a decade-long scriptwriting process. The film is part of a broader effort to tell authentic Ukrainian stories for a domestic audience.
Tekuchev described the most challenging shoot as the river crossing of the Cheremosh in October or November. For the aging makeup in 'Vichnyk,' he spent 14 hours in the makeup chair, coached by acting coach Lesia Ostrovska. He emphasized that Ukrainian cinema must be made for its own people, stating:
'We must create films for our own: films about us, made by us.'
The State of Theater and the Need for Quality Content
Discussing theater, Tekuchev noted that a family cannot survive on an actor's theater salary alone. The Lesya Ukrainka Theater, which until February 28, 2022, was known as the 'National Academic Theater of Russian Drama named after Lesya Ukrainka,' signed a cooperation memorandum with the Franko Theater last autumn. A new production directed by Polish director Grzegorz Jarzyna is scheduled for a premiere this September.
Tekuchev also outlined projects he would refuse, such as those featuring gratuitous violence or casino advertising. His filmography includes:
- Cop from the Past
- When Will You Marry?
- Medicine for the Past
- The Ferryman
- For the Hearth
- Brothers
- Treasure Island
- Vichnyk
- Killhouse
He stressed the critical need to produce high-quality Ukrainian content and to support actors during these difficult times, as the industry's financial situation remains strained. The cultural sector in Ukraine faces immense pressure but continues to adapt and create.
Pavlo Tekuchev's reflections highlight the pressing challenges confronting Ukrainian cinema and theater during the war. His focus on creating content for Ukrainian audiences underscores the importance of cultural identity in a crisis. The collaboration between the Lesya Ukrainka Theater and the Franko Theater may represent a significant step in developing theatrical art in Ukraine, fostering support for artists and new productions during this arduous period.