Taking his script to the stage will be an emotional experience for budding young Ukrainian actor, Alan Tarkil.

But, now rebuilding his life in Stockton, the 18-year-old is passionate about sharing this story.

His play, Snowdrop, was first written and selected for a professional reading at the National Theatre’s New Views Festival last year. It is now going to be fully performed at ARC, Stockton, by Alan and fellow acting students from Stockton Riverside College.

“For me, the play tells a story of every Ukrainian," he said. "It represents their pain, their loss, their love, but most importantly their hope.”

Darlington and Stockton Times: Alan Tarkil outside ARC

Based loosely around his own experiences, it is the story of a young actor, Nicholas, on the brink of success, when he is forced to flee as war breaks out in his homeland.

Alan was just 16 when he himself felt compelled to leave Ukraine with his mum, sister, and grandfather. In the weeks and months that followed they witnessed bombs falling, spent days and nights in an underground bunker fearing for their lives, and left behind friends and loved ones.

Now living with a sponsor family in Stockton, he knows how lucky he is. Studying acting at Stockton Riverside College offers him his own little piece of normality in a world that has been turned upside down.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Alan Tarkil outside ARC

At the same time, he constantly follows the news of what is happening at home.

“I don’t want to feel pity from people, but I do want people to know and understand what is happening,” he said.

“When I came to the UK, I was scared that I wouldn’t be accepted, but everyone has been so supportive. Being an actor can be quite competitive, so having people around me I can rely on, is quite a new experience for me.”

As for the title, Snowdrop, he explained: “They are everywhere in Ukraine, the snowdrop is a symbol of hope, belief and new beginnings.”

ARC’s programmes manager, Chloe Lawrence, said: “We’re delighted to be staging Snowdrop at ARC. The story Alan is telling is so relevant and beautiful; we can’t wait to see his peers from Stockton Riverside College bring this brilliant show to life.”

Snowdrop is at ARC, Stockton, on Friday February 9, with an age guidance of eight plus. Tickets are adults £10.50, students £5.50, available from ARC or visit arconline.co.uk.