Discover a new Ukrainian play that delves into the absurdities of war and existence—performances from August 26–30 at Barons Court Theatre.
Barons Court Theatre proudly presents A Fan of War, a timely and darkly comedic work by renowned Ukrainian playwright Polina Polozhentseva, running from August 26–30 at 7:30 PM, in celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day.
Directed and produced by Anastazie Toros, A Fan of War tells the poignant story of a young Ukrainian woman navigating her life in London while grappling with the traumatic events unfolding back in her homeland. Each notification on her phone serves as a stark reminder of the war, as she strives to find meaning in love while others endure tremendous loss.
The production features powerful performances by Bogdana Kalantay and Nathan Trochet, and poses the question: How do we cope with the realities of war when we’re miles away?
Having premiered to a sold-out audience at Camden People’s Theatre in February 2025, A Fan of War has garnered acclaim for its moving blend of humor and sorrow.
“At some point, I couldn’t take reality seriously anymore,” Polozhentseva reflects. “So I wrote a comedy—one of those bittersweet pieces where you can’t tell whether to laugh or cry.”
“This character represents all Ukrainians living away from home,” Toros adds.
Set against a backdrop of international tension—including recent negotiations between Trump and Putin—A Fan of War resonates across borders as a powerful commentary on war, displacement, and the emotional effects of separation.
About the Creative Team
Anastazie Toros is a theatre director based in London, with recent credits including Refuse (Edinburgh Fringe 2025), Save The Light, and Finding a Voice (Barons Court Theatre), as well as Penita La Tragediya (Lesia Ukrainka Theatre, Kyiv). She also contributed to A Time Traveller’s Guide to Donbas at Nottingham Playhouse.
Polina Polozhentseva is a Ukrainian playwright now residing in London. Her works include Don’t Freak Out (Wild Theatre, Kyiv), Grandma and Grandpa Are Having Sex (Theatre of Playwrights, Kyiv), and Save The Light (Barons Court Theatre), with translations into English, German, and Polish.
Bogdana Kalantay is a German-Ukrainian actress trained at East 15 Acting School, based in London and Berlin. Her screen credits include the BAFTA-winning short Rock, Paper, Scissors, A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian (BBC Radio 4), and Land of Smiles.
Nathan Trochet is a French actor, also trained at East 15 Acting School, with recent stage credits including The Vampire Deadlines and Opening Night with Pickles Company.
Performance Details:
Barons Court Theatre, London
August 26–30, 2025
7:30 PM nightly
Tickets available here.
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