Families of the missing attended a play supported by the Ukrainian Red Cross

At the Volyn Academic Regional Ukrainian Music and Drama Theatre named after T. H. Shevchenko, an extraordinary performance of In Search of Athena took place. The lead role was played by Nataliia, a Ukrainian Red Cross applicant. For 29 months, she had been searching for her son Dmytro, a military medic who had been held in captivity. Despite severe illness and uncertainty, she managed to rescue Athena, the dog who had served alongside her son, from the occupied city of Mariupol. Later, Dmytro also returned from captivity. Today, Nataliia appears on stage not just as an actress, but as a mother. She plays herself to support families who are still waiting for their loved ones to return.

Due to the heartfelt responses from families, the performance was organised again with the support of the theatre management. Before the show, participants had the opportunity to meet and talk in an informal setting at the Volyn regional branch of the Ukrainian Red Cross.

Despite the difficult subject matter, families noted the emotional support it provided. Nataliia’s personal story became a source of strength for other families and a reminder that hope is restored where mutual support exists.