Ukraine is on fire, and Russia has gone dark.

A dictator who is terrorized of democracy only 77 years after the death of Adolf Hitler resurrects the savage beast of war in Europe. What do you need from us, @alexej, @marina, @oleg, @xenia?

It's impossible to continue working and living as if nothing had happened. Persistent sadness replaces optimism, vitality, and inventiveness that previously fueled you. The tsunami of death, sorrow, and blood is causing tidal waves across Europe and the world. A blood flood flows from the reborn cities such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Lviv.

How to go on? How to think about theatrical productions, shows, and touring while my neighbours are slain with grenades and explosives? How talk to the neighbours commonly without falling into a black silence in which every smile seems fraudulent and pointless?

Of course, it is tempting to have the Ukrainian flag on every channel and turn on the lights. And yet, are they nothing more than trifles in front of a great horror? Pinky points to induce oneself into the belief (and display one’s mettle) that 1. one has taste and 2. is on the side of good?

Instinctively, you urged to send money to the Ukrainian army right away. But didn't I, years ago, refuse to serve in the military for reasons of conscience? Do I need to donate money to put weapons in the hands of soldiers? Or is it enough to create space for…