A premiere of the radio version of the play "Zorba the Greek" took place on Radio Culture, created by the National Academic Drama Theater named after Ivan Franko. The performance was showcased during the program "Play Without Intermission".
The play is based on the novel by Nikos Kazantzakis, telling the story of Alexis Zorba — a charismatic traveler, philosopher, and musician whose life is filled with adventures and profound reflections. Now, audiences can enjoy it in a radio format.
Svitlana Hudzy-Voytenko, the creator of the radio version, noted that she associates Zorba the Greek with the modern Ukrainian, who is undeterred by losses and obstacles. She referenced the character's words: "I live as if I could die at any moment":
"Today, these words have become our guide, support, and aspiration to endure. The energy and zest for life of the colorful Zorba will now live in the radio dimension and undoubtedly inspire us! This creative dream, nurtured for over a decade, has come true during our current Ukrainian struggles".
The director of the play is the People's Artist of Ukraine, Shevchenko Prize laureate Vitaliy Malakhov, with music composed by Ivan Nebesny.
Leading roles are played by Natalia Sumska, Anatoliy Khostikoyev, and Denys Martynov.
Natalia Sumska commented, "I truly love our play for its endless intriguing text, sprinkled with witty phrases and irony, which can be quoted, and I recommend fans of Zorba to do just that".