🇪🇺 TEEN European Digital Community: Willow Tree from Polonne, Ukraine

Willow Tree

I graduated in Applied Linguistics and I am currently studying Digital Humanities. I am interested in the intersection of culture, technology and communication, and in how digital tools can support storytelling and creative collaboration. Theatre attracts me as a space where language, body and emotion meet. I also practice dance, which helps me understand movement, rhythm and non-verbal expression as important forms of communication. I am curious, responsible and open to international cooperation. I value projects that combine creativity with critical thinking and social impact. For me, culture is both reflection and action — a way to connect people and create meaningful dialogue.

The soil / the need

When I first got closer to theatre, I was looking for a space where I could express emotions freely and feel understood. I needed something creative that would help me explore myself and connect with others on a deeper level.

The first seed

A performance I watched

Tell us about that first spark

I remember watching a performance where the actors were so honest and present that I felt completely absorbed in the story. In that moment I realised that theatre is not just entertainment — it is a living dialogue between people. That experience made me want to be part of that world.

Roots (people & experiences that shaped your path)

School teachers who encouraged creativity, workshops where I could experiment without fear, and the people I met through cultural activities. Every rehearsal, discussion and shared performance shaped my confidence and understanding of teamwork.

The trunk (what keeps you in theatre)

The feeling of connection. Theatre allows me to grow, reflect, and challenge myself. It teaches discipline, empathy and courage. The process of creating something together keeps me motivated.

Branches (future / desire)

In the future, I imagine theatre being an important part of my personal and creative development. I hope it will give me opportunities to collaborate internationally, develop new skills, and use art as a way to inspire and support others.

Are you currently involved in cultural activities?

Not at the moment, but I would like to be more

If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be? Why?

I would be a willow tree — flexible and resilient. It bends with the wind but does not break, and it grows near water, symbolising emotions and creativity.

Contact

Email: oruskaadriana@gmail.com

Instagram: @adrianaoruska