The Ukrainian Musical Theater in The Woodlands, Texas, hosted the premiere of Zhuravochka — a moving stage adaptation of Panas Myrny’s Lymeryvna. Blending theater, music, poetry, and a deep sense of Ukrainian identity, the performance captivated hearts and marked a cultural milestone.
This was reported by the UNWLA, Branch 118, HTX4Ukraine and the UMT Theater.
“Zhuravochka has taken flight — and how high she soared, thanks to you! The premiere became a true celebration for our theater — a night of unity, art, and the vast Ukrainian soul right in the heart of Texas. You, our audience, made this event a real celebration. Thank you for being with us, for listening, empathizing, laughing, and crying with the characters, for greeting the play with a standing ovation — we felt your applause in our hearts. You reminded us that we are needed — by our community, by our culture, by Ukraine…,” shared the Ukrainian Musical Theater team after the premiere.
Zhuravochka is the first production of the newly founded Ukrainian Musical Theater in The Woodlands. It has already been described as a celebration of unity, art, and the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people.
A modern interpretation of a Ukrainian classic, Zhuravochka weaves together powerful drama, music, poetic language, and choreography. At the heart of the story is Nataliya, a young woman longing for freedom, love, and the right to be herself in a harsh world of social constraints and tradition. Many of the actors are Ukrainians who were forced to flee their homes due to the war but continue to carry and share their cultural spirit.
The premiere evening was deeply emotional for both the performers and the audience, which responded to the final bow with a standing ovation. Notably, the Consul of Ukraine in Houston, Vitalii Tarasiuk, expressed his appreciation to the team for their contribution to preserving Ukrainian culture abroad.
“Zhuravochka is more than a play. It is a powerful reflection of identity, memory, and hope. Many of the cast are Ukrainians displaced by war, yet they continue to share their stories and spirit on stage,” noted the volunteer organization HTX4Ukraine, which supported the event’s organization.
The musical soul of the production was shaped by Vadym Zadvornov — the musical director, composer, and heart of the theater.
“All the music heard that night was born of his sensitive ear, caring hands, and creative heart,” the theater team emphasized.
Another key figure was theater administrator Yevheniia Biland — the driving force behind the project, who brought the team together, organized the process, and proved that cultural initiatives can thrive even in challenging times. The Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA), Branch 118, congratulated Yevheniia Biland on her participation in the production, recognizing her as a fellow member of the League. The play was directed by Inna Yermolenko, choreographed by Iryna Huriieva, with technical direction by Oleh Yermolenko. Dozens of talented performers, including children, took part in the production — singing, dancing, and delivering heartfelt monologues.
“We experienced a storm of emotions — from trembling backstage to tears of joy after the final bow. And now we know for sure: this is just the beginning,” the organizers wrote on the theater’s page.
Background The Ukrainian Musical Theater was established in The Woodlands in February 2024 to preserve, support, and develop Ukrainian culture abroad. The theater’s actors and singers actively participate in cultural and artistic events throughout the city.
Author: Inna Mikhno