“Donbas League of Laughter” – developing creative activity among youth in the region

The NGO Responsible Citizens, in collaboration with the NGO Donbas League, implemented the project “Donbas League of Laughter” – the official regional representative of the television project “League of Laughter” on the channel “1+1.” The Donbas League of Laughter (DLL) is a humorous event where teams compete for the title of season champion.

With the onset of hostilities in Eastern Ukraine, a significant number of active youth left the region, facing not only threats to their lives but also a lack of prospects for further development amid a socio-economic crisis. The outflow of youth from the Donetsk and Luhansk regions continues today, creating risks for the future recovery and economic development of the area. Without the development and support of the youth movement, this territory could become depressed, with a high likelihood of new conflicts arising.

Conducting creative events in the Donetsk region can encourage active youth to stay and develop in their own region, represent their hometowns at nationwide events, and enhance the region’s prestige.

Goals and Objectives of the “Donbas League of Laughter”:

• Activate the youth humor movement in Donbas.
• Develop and promote talented teams and comedians.
• Raise the prestige and popularize the region.
• Foster creative and cultural interaction among youth from different cities, regions, and areas.

Cities of the Games: Kramatorsk, Mariupol.

The project started in 2018. Two successful seasons have been held, with more than 200 participants. In 2020, due to the spread of Covid-19, the start of the season was postponed to the fall.

Throughout the season, there are a total of 6 events: Festival, 1/8, ¼, Semi-Final, Final, Winter Cup. Each game has a theme.

The coaches are well-known and recognizable actors from the television “League of Laughter,” as well as famous showmen with acting skills and experience in humorous shows. The coaches serve as an additional element of training for the teams.

Working Staff of DLL:

• Leadership: Volodymyr Kosse, Enrique Menendez, Olga Kosse.
• Editors: Ilya Dermenji, Serhiy Bibilov (authors, actors, and screenwriters from the “Kvartal-95” studio).

The project was implemented with the support of the Kramatorsk City Council and the Mariupol City Council.