Alexander Molochnikov, a Russian playwright, experienced a significant change when his country, Russia, invaded Ukraine in 2022. He moved to Columbia University to study film and was accepted to study at Columbia University, but could not return to his home country. After leaving Russia, Molochenikov found the passion for theater and created a play, “Seagull, True Story” which took over three years to produce. The play is loosely based on his own experiences and is currently playing at The Public Theater until May 3, 2026. The executive producer of the show, Sofia Kapkov, credits her journey to help alleviate pain during a time of pain. While both Russia and the United States face similar challenges, the war is seen as a key difference seen at a key time.