Virtual Vertep Vision is a series of articles and videos dedicated to each character of the traditional Ukrainian Vertep. Created as part of the project “BoykoTravel: Vertep PreServes Ukraine”, implemented with the support of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation.
There in Bakhmut, where gunfire sounded,
Where the flower of our nation fell —
All grew silent… then we heard it:
Christ is born! Let us glorify Him well!
(Oleh Vitvitskyi, 2022)
The Ukrainian Vertep has always been a living chronicle of its time – a mirror in which the biblical story takes on national meaning. And today, as Ukraine once again fights for its very life, a new hero naturally steps into the scene – the soldier of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
He is the heir to all who stood for freedom: the Cossack, the Sich Rifleman, the UPA insurgent. His presence in the Vertep is not a theatrical adaptation – it is the organic continuation of our historical tradition.
The soldier of the Armed Forces of Ukraine does not wear sharovary. His clothing is today’s battle uniform: pixel or multicam camouflage, body armor, Kevlar helmet, combat boots, rifle over the shoulder. This is not a costume – it is the image of a living defender, standing between light and darkness. His posture – upright; his gaze – calm and firm, like the faith he carries.
In modern Vertep performances, the Ukrainian soldier often appears at the moment of climax. He speaks briefly – yet profoundly. His words sound like both prayer and oath.
In the Ukrainian Vertep it is written clearly: eras change, but the struggle for freedom remains.
All Ukraine is our family —
Its Armed Forces and TDF belong.
Under God’s banner we march for triumph —
Christ is born! Let us glorify Him strong!