Interview: Valery Reva talks “in|Secure”

July 2023

This August, Ukrainian writer-performer Valery Reva is bringing “in|Secure” to The Lion and Unicorn Theatre (18-19 August). This new one-woman show explores the theme of guilt in relation to the War in Ukraine, with Valery taking stories directly from wartime experiences of friends. The play offers “an unsanitised version of an ongoing, brutal conflict, told by a people who do not deserve to be forgotten, and who need the ongoing support of the global community”. Here, Valery gives insights on the show and its messages, personal aspirations and what’s so great about being a part of the industry.

What sparked the creation of this new show, in|Secure?

As the war raged on, I felt a strong desire to contribute, to help my nation, but was unsure of how to make a meaningful impact. I made donations and shared information on social media, but I started sensing a weariness among people, as if they were becoming desensitised to the ongoing conflict. The shock factor had transformed into a numbing routine. I recognised that data and news, however overwhelming, lacked a personal touch. They were devoid of individual faces and emotions. This realisation motivated me to find a way to reconnect people with the reality of war, even if they were far removed from it.

One day, while scrolling through my Facebook feed, I came across a post from a former colleague we had been working together in a drama studio in Kyiv. From the very onset of the full-scale invasion, he had enlisted in the army alongside his partner. In his post, he candidly described his experiences of ‘not experiencing’ homophobia within the military. Those sincere and vulnerable words, written by someone who selflessly protected our nation daily, struck a chord within me. I felt that his story needed to be heard.

From that moment, I knew what I could do: I started collecting testimonies from various Ukrainians on the platform: friends, acquaintances, and even strangers in Kyiv, Lviv, those on the frontline, within and beyond Ukraine’s borders—both soldiers and civilians. Those random people were all bound together by the only thing – circumstances imposed by this war. Gathering enough material, I finally composed them all together in a play. By telling their stories from stage, I aim to humanise the War by putting a face to each name, creating a visceral connection through my performance.

That’s quite a journey for this piece already then. So, for you, what’s the most important thing you want people to know about this show?

The stories you will hear in this show are real stories shared by real people from Ukraine on social media. People living their everyday life that both you and I can relate to: enjoying a cup of coffee, sharing moments on Instagram, navigating misunderstandings, expressing grievances, experiencing love, and even having sex. However, for all Ukrainians these commonplace activities coexist with the constant presence of war. Come to the show to see what does it change (if changes at all).

How does in|Secure relate to your previous work – is this new territory or more of a natural progression?

This is a significant milestone for me as I step into the role of a writer and embark on my very first solo show. So yes, definitely a new territory. Back in Ukraine, there exists a clear division among creative roles: a writer’s purpose is to write, a director’s is to direct, and an actor’s is to act. However, thanks to my MA degree at Mountview, I had the incredible opportunity to explore a new dimension of creativity and delve into the process of creating my own work. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to break free from conventional labels and discover the thrill of bringing my artistic vision to life.

And can audiences expect light and dark or is this show intentionally all of one, none of the other?

Definitely both. I’ll skip discussion of the dark part – when a show is centred around war, it’s evident that the dramatic elements come to mind naturally. However, I’d like to point out the brighter side that the description also mentions. It highlights that ‘in|Secure’ is a dark comedy, and that aspect truly speaks for itself. It is fascinating how humour can be a superpower, and it is something I strongly associate with Ukrainian culture. I find our ability to find humour even in the darkest of times is truly remarkable.

Are there trigger warnings or age restrictions to be aware of?

To be honest, the topic fosters in a way. The show contains flashing lights, sudden loud noises, strong language, it touches upon sensitive subjects such as war, death, and homophobia. And I’m talking about sex as well – so that’s an ‘all-inclusive’ package haha.

Some quick-fire questions now then. Best show you’ve seen this year?

Although I saw it a year ago, whenever someone mentions the “best show,” I cannot help but reminisce about Jamie Lloyd’s production of “Cyrano de Bergerac”. I’m a fan of Lloyd’s shows overall – and James McAvoy was just irresistible.

Few can argue with that! Dream venue to play?

Well, I was working in the National Theatre in Kyiv, so I’d love to act on the stage of the National Theatre in London as well.

Best advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to theatre-making?

Hold on tightly, let go lightly.

Great advice. The best thing about being involved with this industry?

You never know what to expect around the corner. Even in the face of difficult times, there is always the potential for something better, something hopeful to look forward to.

And finally, in one line or less, why should audiences come along to see in|Secure this August?

It is not what you expect from the show about war.

So there you have it! You can catch Valery Reva’s “in|Secure” at The Lion and Unicorn Theatre 18-19th August 2023 as part of the Camden Fringe – more information and tickets can be found here.