With the Russian offensive against Ukraine ongoing, the Kremlin's influence seeps further into the country's cultural sphere. Theatre, one of the few outlets left for free expression, is fighting to survive. In the past two years, at least 30 directors have left Russia or been sacked. At least 60 shows have been cancelled, according to the magazine Teatr. "You have to choose your words very carefully now" says theatre director and writer Anton Fyodorov, "otherwise you might find yourself in a deplorable situation". Other figures, like writer Oleg Roy, believe the theatre should project patriotism during "a state of war". "Either you are with your country or you are against it" he says. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES