World Health Day is observed worldwide on April 7—a day that serves as an annual reminder of the importance of prioritizing physical and mental well-being. At the initiative of the World Health Organization, educational events, lectures, and public initiatives focusing on health and emotional well-being are held in various countries.
In recent years, mental health has been receiving increasing attention. Psychologists emphasize the importance of inner dialogue—that voice of doubt or self-criticism often referred to as the “inner critic.”
This topic is appearing with growing frequency not only in academic discussions but also in the arts.
This is precisely what the play “My Inner Enemy,” currently being prepared for performance in Aachen, is about.
Theater as a means of talking about the inner world
The play deals with feelings that are familiar to many—doubt, fears, self-criticism, and the search for self-acceptance.
The play explores feelings familiar to many—doubts, fears, self-criticism, and the search for self-acceptance. Through a blend of dramatic and comedic moments, it invites the audience to view their own inner dialogue from an outside perspective.
The play was created by director Yevheniia Ivanova, founder of the “Prostir” theater studio, a Ukrainian woman with experience as a refugee, mother of three, and author: “This play is about that inner dialogue that every person is familiar with. We often struggle not with the world, but with our own fears and doubts,” says the director.
Characters that live within each of us
On stage, the audience encounters characters that symbolize various aspects of the human inner world—doubt, self-criticism, fear, the child, or the ego. Through humor and dramatic moments, the play depicts situations of inner conflict that are familiar to many.
Here’s what Viktoria, the play’s lead actress, has to say: "I believe that every person needs support and stability in this life; often we seek these things externally. But over time, we come to realize that we ourselves must be our own greatest source of support. Throughout her life, a woman fulfills many different roles: in the family, at work, in society. And in this whirlwind of responsibilities, it’s very easy to start doubting one’s own worth.
I’m sure many people will recognize themselves in my character. This role is about a journey: a difficult, sometimes painful, but very honest journey. A journey toward inner strength. I love this role very much, even though it’s not easy emotionally. It forces you to look deeper within yourself and reminds us once again: We are with ourselves, and that is the most important thing.”
“I play Ego in the play,” comments actress Olena, “and for me, that’s a part of myself that needs attention and acceptance. The more we suppress these sides of ourselves, the louder they become.” While working on the role, I realized that it’s important not to fight against yourself, but to learn to accept these inner impulses. When you allow yourself to listen to them, a sense of calm emerges, along with greater honesty toward yourself and the opportunity to understand yourself better and find inner balance.”
Dates: 28. April, 1. Mai, 📍 Ort: Ludwig Forum Space, Aachen
3. Juli, 📍 Ort: Ludwig Forum Space, Аахен
Language: Ukrainian with German subtitles
🎟 Tickets are now on sale.
Events like these create opportunities for communication, cultural exchange, and new experiences. It is also an opportunity to experience stories and emotions on stage that are easy to relate to. It is a wonderful chance to spend an evening in a creative atmosphere, meet like-minded people, invite friends—including German ones—and discover Ukrainian theater, culture, humor, and new meanings together.
The theme of inner dialogue, doubt, and self-acceptance remains ever relevant, regardless of country or time. Perhaps during this performance, someone will find an answer to their inner questions or simply spend an evening that will stay with them.
Compiled by Marina Bets, photos from the archives of the “Prostir” theater studio
