Preface
This is a multimedia version of my dissertation, which was defended in 2020. It includes embedded, subtitled videos and more color photos than the textual version of the dissertation could support. My hope is that watching videos of jokes and performances will help convey the energy and giddiness of KVN in a way transcripts cannot.
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2023 changed the context for much of the material presented here. What follows is a story of traditions that persist despite restrictions, and of friendships that overcome political conflict. But the KVN / League of Laughter tradition is on hold for now in Ukraine. About cross-border friendships—who can say?
Some of the Ukrainian Liga Smeshniki featured here now fight in the Ukrainian armed forces. Others volunteer in other ways, by delivering food, helping people evacuate, fundraising, or rebuilding in reclaimed territories. Some comedians are also giving free concerts to boost morale, benefit concerts to raise money, or making short social media sketches to brighten people's days. One can only hope that they can soon write jokes about life, without war.
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2023 changed the context for much of the material presented here. What follows is a story of traditions that persist despite restrictions, and of friendships that overcome political conflict. But the KVN / League of Laughter tradition is on hold for now in Ukraine. About cross-border friendships—who can say?
Some of the Ukrainian Liga Smeshniki featured here now fight in the Ukrainian armed forces. Others volunteer in other ways, by delivering food, helping people evacuate, fundraising, or rebuilding in reclaimed territories. Some comedians are also giving free concerts to boost morale, benefit concerts to raise money, or making short social media sketches to brighten people's days. One can only hope that they can soon write jokes about life, without war.