Set across thirty turbulent years, MARIUPOL is a bittersweet love story tested by time, borders, and war. Written by Katia Haddad and directed for the Fringe by Guy Retallack, this powerful drama runs at Pleasance Courtyard (Beneath) from 30 July to 25 August (not 6 & 18), at 13:00.
The story begins in 1992, when Russian student Galina falls for Ukrainian Navy officer Steve during a summer in Mariupol. Their paths cross again in Moscow a decade later, and finally, thirty years on, Galina returns to the now-devastated city at the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, hoping Steve can help her find her missing son in the Azovstal Iron and Steel Works.
Inspired by Haddad’s own childhood summers in Mariupol, the play explores love and identity on opposing sides of conflict. Following a successful run at London’s Cockpit Theatre, MARIUPOL arrives at the Fringe with a new direction by Guy Retallack, building on the original staging by Olivier Award-winner John Retallack.
The production stars Nathalie Barclay and Oliver Gomm, and supports the David Nott Foundation, which trains surgeons in conflict zones. With themes of combat, loss, and resilience, MARIUPOL is a moving and timely reflection on the human cost of war.