The Forum Theatre is an exceptional format that not only unearths pressing issues, but also promotes active interaction between performers and viewers to collaboratively discover solutions through dialogue. The regional screening of the play in Kremenchuk on June 30 was centered around the topic of integrating displaced children into their new communities.

The Forum Theater performance included actors who had found shelter in the Poltavska and Cherkaska oblasts. Following a three-day workshop where they picked a topic, composed a script, and rehearsed, they premiered their performance to its first viewers. On June 30, the ensemble of displaced performers staged their play for IDPs and government representatives in Kremenchuk. This event was organized as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by IREX together with the Charity Foundation Stabilization Support Services and with the support of the U.S. Department of State.

The story revolved around a mother and daughter who had to flee their home due to war. They faced severe financial hardship as the mother was unable to secure employment. Because of financial constraints, the child felt out of place among her peers, who she wanted to befriend.

According to Nataliya Teslyk, the regional coordinator of the United Voices in Action program, the play touched everyone deeply, triggering an active discussion among the audience. “A member of the audience suggested having a heart-to-heart conversation with the child, explaining the mother’s struggle as well. This performance allowed the actors and viewers to delve into the topic of mutual assistance, which is critically important for IDPs. We collectively discussed the possible actions for the mother and daughter in such a situation. We all agreed on the crucial role of psychological support programs for families in overcoming the challenges of the integration of IDPs into new communities.”

During the Forum Theater performance, the proposal to establish a database for employers to assist IDPs in search of jobs and in dire need of financial support emerged. Indeed, numerous families with children are unable to handle new challenges on their own.

“Relocating is challenging even for an adult. Parents often find themselves compelled to move not where they want to, but wherever they can. Consequently, the child is uprooted from their familiar life and social network. This is frequently overlooked as the primary focus is on securing accommodation and employment, which can potentially result in the child suffering,” stated Maryna Dotsenko, head of the Department of Social Protection of the Kremenchuk City Council.

“The play deeply moved me. We need to strike a balance to avoid professional burnout among those serving the community hosting IDPs. At the same time, it’s vital to empathize with the challenges IDPs face. To find a solution, we need to examine the issue from various perspectives,” commented Viktor Kozlovskyi, a lawyer at the Liderka NGO.

According to the organizers, such events serve as additional opportunities to foster dialogue between IDPs, government officials, and the proactive public. Currently, 46,552 displaced children are registered in the Poltavska Oblast, who are in desperate need of assistance to integrate into new communities.