Information
Landmark: Zaporizhzhia Academic Theatre for Young SpectatorsCity: Zaporizhzhia
Country: Ukraine
Continent: Europe
Zaporizhzhia Academic Theatre for Young Spectators, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, Europe
Overview
The Zaporizhzhia Academic Regional Theatre for Young Spectators (Запорізький академічний обласний театр юного глядача) opened its doors in 1979, founded by Oleksandr Korol, the first director and a Honored Artist of the Ukrainian SSR, whose vision still echoes in the creak of its wooden stage.The theater was created to bring top-notch performances to children and teens throughout the Zaporizhzhia region, from lively comedies to stories that make you lean in and listen.The first premiere, “Драматична пісня” (“Dramatic Song”), took place on November 20, 1979, under a cold, clear night sky.At first, the theater didn’t have a home of its own, so it packed up the set and took the show on the road week after week.In 1988, the name changed to simply “Youth Theatre,” a shift aimed at drawing a wider crowd-teenagers and young adults eager for fresh stories and late-night performances.In 2012, the theatre earned the coveted title of academic, a nod to its outstanding work in the performing arts-think of the rich velvet curtains rising on a stage alive with talent.🏛️ Location and Building Current Address: Nezalezhnoi Ukrainy Street, 55A, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine Building Features: Fully renovated and equipped with modern stage and sound technology Main Stage (Big Hall): Seats 359 people.🏛️ You’ll find it at 55A Nezalezhnoi Ukrainy Street in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine-a fully renovated venue with sleek stage lighting and crisp sound.The main hall seats 359.Perfect for big productions and bustling public events, like a festival with music echoing through the streets.The Small Hall holds 55 guests, with just enough space for the scrape of chairs against the wooden floor.It hosts chamber performances, runs hands-on workshops, and stages experimental theatre under soft, dim lights.🎭 Artistic Direction and Repertoire The theater maintains a rich and diverse artistic program focused on: For Children: Classic fairy tales with modern interpretations Puppet and visual theatre Educational plays that teach moral or social lessons For Teenagers and Youth: Modern Ukrainian and international drama Performances that address identity, adolescence, peer relationships, and social justice Satirical comedies and dynamic musical productions For General Audiences: Comedies, lyrical dramas, and family-friendly shows Ukrainian literature adaptations and international classics Notable Productions: Orange Princess – fairy tale for children In Search of the Dragon – fantasy adventure Dad in the Web – on parental attention and the digital age Dinner of Fools and Boeing-Boeing – adult-oriented comedies Wolves and Sheep – satire by Alexander Ostrovsky 🎓 Cultural and Educational Mission Strong emphasis on youth education and emotional development Interactive performances involving audience participation, especially for younger children Workshops and discussions hosted post-performance to engage audiences in deeper reflection Collaborations with schools , child psychologists , and social services Hosts psychological drama programs to support children affected by war or trauma 🌍 International and Regional Engagement Regular participant in Ukrainian and international theatre festivals Cooperation with Theater Oberhausen (Germany) on multicultural projects Tours across the Zaporizhzhia region and beyond, especially to bring theatre to children in remote or underserved areas Supporter of artistic initiatives and cultural recovery efforts during wartime 🤝 Community and Social Projects Partner of Voices of Children Foundation , providing therapeutic performances for displaced children Hosts inclusive performances for children with disabilities Engages in volunteer and charitable activities , including free performances for schools, orphanages, and military families 📅 Visiting the Theatre Box Office Hours: Typically open on weekdays and performance days from 10:00 to 18:00 Languages: Primarily Ukrainian, with occasional bilingual or surtitled performances Accessibility: Fully accessible for people with disabilities Tickets: Available online via Concert.ua, Kontramarka.ua, and in-person Events Calendar: Posted monthly on the official website 📞 Contact Information Phone: +380 (61) 286-29-71 Social Media: Active on Facebook and Instagram The Zaporizhzhia Academic Regional Theatre for Young Spectators is not just a performance venue-it is a cultural institution deeply integrated into the educational and emotional lives of children and youth in Zaporizhzhia and across Ukraine.Inside, you’ll find rehearsal rooms, dressing areas, a foyer lit with shifting colors, and spaces designed for hands-on events and neighborhood get‑togethers.
