Introduction
On September 17 at 18:00, the Ivano-Frankivsk Drama Theater will present "Forest Song on the Field of Blood" — a performance with a very evocative genre definition of "metamorphoses of the soul." This show is for those who love not just a classic text on stage, but a lively, somewhat risky conversation about love, betrayal, pain, and forgiveness.
The performance lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and takes place on the "Border Stage," meaning in the theater's basement, where the audience and characters sit at the same table. It is precisely because of this closeness that the event can resonate well with those who want to not just "watch a performance from afar," but literally find themselves inside a theatrical experience.
About the Event
This is a premiere based on the dramatic works of Lesya Ukrainka, which the theater defines as "metamorphoses of the soul." The show is part of the repertoire of the Ivano-Frankivsk Drama Theater on the new, sixth stage — the "Border Stage," and the very idea of this space already sets a special intimate tone for the performance.
There is no feeling of great distance between the stage and the hall: the format suggests intimacy, attention to detail, and likely strong emotional reactions. If you appreciate theater where not only events matter but also the inner breakdowns of the characters, then this is the case for you.
Plot and Mood
At the center of the performance is a great love that cannot be fully grasped, and at the same time, a terrible betrayal that becomes a betrayal of one’s true self and their Teacher. The theater speaks directly about great pain and great forgiveness — meaning this is not an easy story for a "relaxed evening," but rather an emotionally rich, deep presentation.
It sounds as if the production balances between two poles — earthly and heavenly love, which grow from one source. That is why the performance can touch those who love symbolic theater and texts that leave you carrying what you have seen for some time after leaving the hall.
Production
The direction and staging were carried out by the People's Artist of Ukraine, laureate of the Taras Shevchenko National Prize, Rostyslav Derzhypilskyi. The musical direction was created by the Honored Artist of Ukraine, laureate of the Shevchenko Prize, Natalia Polovynka, so the performance has a strong creative team with a distinct authorial style.
The set designer is Yuliia Zaulychna, and the team also included assistant director Oleg Panas and director's assistant Andrii Felyk. The cast includes Nadiia Levchenko, Natalia Polovynka, Inna Bevza, Oleg Panas, Irma Vitovska, Olha Komanovska, Oleksii Hnatkovskyi, Liliia Abram’iuk, Liubomyr Valivots and Ivan Blindar. For the theatergoer, this is already a strong reason to pay closer attention to the event.
How to Get There, Duration, and Intermissions
The theater is located at: Ivano-Frankivsk, Independence Street, 42. This is worth keeping in mind if you plan to get to the city center; it is generally a convenient location for a walk before or after the performance.
The performance lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. The provided official information does not specify how many intermissions there will be, so it’s better to prepare for an evening of full immersion rather than a short event "between tasks."
Prices and Audience
The available information does not provide the official price for this show, but for similar theatrical events in the city, tickets usually start from a few hundred hryvnias. This is a good option for a date, an evening with friends, or for those who love strong dramatic theater without unnecessary frivolity.
If you want an event with deep meaning, symbols, and emotional tension, you won’t be bored. However, if you are looking for a light comedy for relaxation, this performance may seem heavier and more serious than expected.
Audience Tips
It’s better to arrive a little early to find the entrance without haste and calmly adjust to the intimate space of the "Border Stage." For such a format, understated, comfortable clothing without excessive pomp is suitable — here, the feeling of presence is more important than solemnity.
If there is an intermission, it’s better to use it not just for coffee but also for a brief "switch" after the emotionally rich first segment. And if you enjoy theater that not only entertains but also stirs something inside, this event could be a very good choice — do you prefer such an intimate evening in a basement space, or do you still want a lighter theatrical mood?
