Analysis of the Place and Role of Theatre in Cultural Diplomacy: Relations Between Poland and Ukraine (2014-2023)

This article presents the results of an interdisciplinary pilot study on the role of theatre in the context of cultural diplomacy between Poland and Ukraine over the past decade. The research period was shaped by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Poland’s ongoing support for Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. The study explores the role of theatre in shaping international cultural relations, with a particular focus on its use as a tool of cultural diplomacy in Polish-Ukrainian relations. The analysis centres on the interactions between representatives, governments, and cultural institutions of both countries. The article examines the place of theatre in cultural diplomacy between Poland and Ukraine from 2014 to 2023. The research methodology included induction (comparing empirical data); deduction (hypothesis verification); analysis; synthesis; and analogy. A historical-comparative analysis was also conducted, tracking the evolution of cultural relations between Poland and Ukraine. This analysis compares the development of international theatre practices, including festivals, artistic residencies, and cultural exchanges involving artists from both countries. An institutional analysis further identifies the role of specific organizations, their position in cultural diplomacy, and their efforts to strengthen Polish-Ukrainian relations. The article identifies key challenges and obstacles that hinder the execution of Polish-Ukrainian theatre projects within cultural diplomacy. This analysis will assist in developing strategies to overcome these challenges and improve the process of enhancing bilateral relations between Poland and Ukraine in cultural diplomacy.