Supporting Ukrainian Artists in Austria: A Conversation with Andrey von Schlippe

As part of our ongoing initiative to support Ukrainian artists who have found refuge in Austria, the Safavi Impact Institute hosted a special creative talk at Dschungel Wien — a renowned theatre for young audiences — featuring acclaimed German director and scenographer Andrey von Schlippe.

Von Schlippe, whose recent production The Woman in Black in Kyiv received critical and public acclaim, shared his experiences and reflections on stage design, artistic direction, and the profound power of theatre in times of war. He spoke about the transformative role of the performing arts in crisis, not only as a form of resistance and resilience, but also as a way to preserve identity and foster connection across cultures.

He was joined by Bartek Kubiak, a seasoned lighting designer who provided the audience with behind-the-scenes insights into his creative process and his recent collaborations with Ukrainian theatre professionals.

The audience included both professional Ukrainian artists currently living and working in Austria and a group of Ukrainian teenagers actively engaged in theatre productions at Dschungel Wien. Their presence brought a vibrant, intergenerational energy to the event and underscored the importance of nurturing creative expression and cultural continuity in times of displacement.

This event is part of our broader program focused on connecting displaced Ukrainian professionals with local networks, strengthening their visibility, and creating meaningful opportunities for participation in Austria’s cultural and professional life. Through dialogue, collaboration, and shared artistic experiences, we aim to support integration that respects both identity and aspiration.