On April 1, Odesa celebrated April Fool's Day with an unforgettable show by the actors of the «Masks» theater.

This was reported by a correspondent from Ukrinform.

The performers not only sang and danced but also recited poetry and held a fun quiz, where they gave away tickets to their shows.

«We live in a world of contrasts... When there is a lot of negativity around, people crave positivity. We know how to bring joy. I see how people's faces change before and after our performances – they become entirely different. Audiences often approach me and say that for the first time in years, they smiled because of us. A nation that remembers how to laugh can never be defeated,» said Boris Barsky, the director of the «Masks» theater.

Actor Oleksandr Postolenko emphasized that Odesa residents always feel the need for laughter, especially during the war.

«It's essential to escape reality. Of course, we must not forget about the war. We need to help. It's impossible to forbid love, the birth of children, or laughter. Laughter is a crucial aspect of our lives,» said the artist.

Since the 1970s, Odesa has traditionally celebrated Humorina, established by the Odesa KVN team «Business People». Initially, the festival took place at the stadium with parades, car shows, comedy movies, and concerts. In 1976, the festival was banned, but it revived in the late 1980s.

In 2014, Humorina was canceled due to the political situation, but the «Comedyada» mini-festival by the «Masks» theater took place in the streets. In 2017, thousands of people participated again in festive costumes. During the pandemic in 2020-2021, Humorina was held online.

In 2022, despite the war, Odesa residents held Humorina-Dzhavilina, with a charity marathon supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine as the main event.

In 2023, for the 50th anniversary of Humorina, actors from the «Masks» theater and the National Guard Orchestra greeted the citizens. In 2024, «Masks» organized an «economical version» of Humorina in the city garden.