Refugees in Dorset play 'promoting peace in a time of conflict'

A theatre group consisting of Ukrainian refugees, people in addiction recovery and people who speak English as a second language is putting on a series of special performances across Dorset from July 8 to July 30.

The Dorset-based theatre company Celest, which is part of Vita Nova, will be performing Hopefool, a play exploring themes of peace, love and acceptance.

Olena Rohovska, 21, plays Hope. She was studying at university in Lviv when Russia attacked Ukraine.

She still finds it difficult putting into words the shock she felt receiving the phone call from her brother warning her that war had broken out.

Olena Rohovska with her mother, Olha Rohovska in Ukraine before the war (Image: Vita Nova)

Olena said: “In that moment my life changed. I was on the western side [of Ukraine] but listening to the thud – thud – thud of bombs. It was so frightening. So unreal.”

She arrived in the UK 12 months ago with her mother Olha, and they were welcomed by a sponsor family in Dorset.

“Everyone has been so kind, but it’s hard worrying about friends and family in Ukraine. Not knowing what will happen.”

Olena explained to that she feels constantly anxious and has to keep herself busy, working, studying, playing music – and joining the drama company.

The play’s lead actors draw on their first-hand experience of being forced to leave their homelands: Hope is, played by Olena Rohovska from Ukraine; Omid (Persian for hope) is Khabib Lutfullah Niazi from Afghanistan; and The Fool, Jamal Barrie, is from Sierra Leone.

Dr Sharon Coyne, who wrote and directed the play said: “Hopefool addresses inequality and the struggles of refugees. This drama is the beginning of a discussion, a dialogue not just about the issue of refugees, but also the significance of borders and how immigration has impacted this country.

“It is a play for young people and adults that promotes peace in a time of conflict. Young people witnessing the horror of war from around the world, can be left feeling helpless – without hope.

“Hopefool reminds us that we do have a voice and can make a difference however small in promoting unity and love.

“I am proud to see cast members who have English sometimes as a second, third or fourth language, challenging themselves, learning together, giving one another strength. Every day they prove that cooperation is possible.”

The first performance of Hopefool will take place at Corfe Castle Sandy Hill Arts on July 8 at 6.30pm, followed by a performance at Bridport Town Hall, on July 29 at 6.30pm and another at Wimborne: Museum of East Dorset on July 30.

For more information, visit: www.vitanova.co.uk.