The students of the Faculty FPSC, SumDU, Kateryna Haidukova (specialty "Journalism") and Anzhela Kalchenko (specialty "Philology") took part in the Christmas nativity scene organised by the scout organization "Plast" on January 6.
The nativity scene was traditionally based on the classical story of the birth of Jesus Christ; however, this year's story was expanded with allegories of current events in Ukraine. For example, two journalists looking for a generator for the Virgin Mary replaced the shepherds, Ukrainian celebrities replaced the Magi, and the well-known dog Patron performed the role of the angel. And, like any other good story, the nativity scene had villains: the devil-priest of the Moscow Patriarchate and a gabion man who stood in the way of the heroes to the generator.
In addition to the nativity scene, carolers sang Christmas songs: "The God walks in Paradise", "Oh, in the garden – the garden and the grapes", and others. The nativity scene was performed by students in the "Romantyca", the office of "Tsukr", coffee shop "CoffeeMan", where they were treated with hot chocolate, and eventually even in the City Council.
Anzhela Kalchenko shared her impressions:
– Most memorable for me was the atmosphere of celebration, ancient tradition, songs, and smiles of the people we visited! We all prepared diligently for the performance – learned our roles, and rehearsed. Although our nativity scene's plot differed from the classical one, the elements of today's realities amused the audience on that evening. With joint efforts, we raised almost 4 thousand hryvnias, which will be sent to local funds to support our region in the fight against real evil.
The nativity scene made a great impression on other participants, who had not previously thought that following folk traditions could bring such pleasure. The laugh of passers-by and spectators and enthusiastic singing created a feeling of ecstasy from the success of the collective work. The full moon, cloudless starry sky, creative costumes, and a homemade Christmas star gave the participants and spectators a sense of peace and a real Ukrainian Christmas fairytale.
Kateryna Haidukova, student of the group ZhT-11
