A Theatre Laboratory “Where Home Begins” to Take Place at EHU
On December 1–3, the European Humanities University will host the first stage of the theatre laboratory “Where Home Begins.” This research-based artistic program explores the phenomenon of the “homelessness” of the new European individual — a theme that frequently appears today in the humanities, contemporary theatre, and public discourse.
The laboratory considers “homelessness” as a complex social, cultural, and existential phenomenon. Participants will examine it through the tools of documentary theatre, adaptation techniques, and the creation of original stage texts. After completing the first module, participants will continue working in a format of intensive research and creative sessions that combine the analysis of documentary sources, engagement with literary and sociocultural materials, and artistic experimentation.
The project brings together researchers, playwrights, directors, and educators who will guide the process and help shape the framework for creative exploration. Among them:
Aleksandr Marchenko — artistic director of the laboratory, director, actor, curator of the “Theatre Art and Acting” program (EHU, Vilnius).
Tadas Montrimаs — director, head of the independent theatre Taško, recipient of the national theatre award “Golden Stage Cross” (2020), working at the intersection of classical drama, immersive theatre, and interdisciplinary practices.
Mikita Ilichnik — playwright and theatre director, graduate of GITIS, two-time laureate of the “Aurora” competition, author of more than ten plays staged across Europe.
Irina Serebriakova — Ukrainian playwright, author of over ten documentary plays presented in Kyiv, Berlin, New Delhi, Barcelona, Oslo, Helsinki and other cities; her works have been translated into ten languages.
Valentina Moroz — director and curator of cultural projects, graduate of the MXAT School-Studio and the Meyerhold Center, working at the intersection of theatre and social themes.
The laboratory focuses on exploring the language of documentary theatre and its potential for interpreting contemporary European processes. In spring 2026, participants will present experimental stage sketches to a wider audience, created across various artistic approaches — from documentary drama to original prose for the stage. The outcomes will form the basis for further research in contemporary drama, performative practices, and social documentation.