On September 7, young foreign InteRussia actors visited the Moscow Art Theatre, one of the most important institutions in the history of Russian theatre.
During the guided tour, the fellows learned about the history of the theatre and its building, designed by architect Fyodor Shekhtel. In the Historical Hall, they heard about Konstantin Stanislavsky and Vladimir Nemirovich-Danchenko and the creation of the Moscow Art Theatre, as well as the origins of its iconic symbol — the seagull, which became closely associated with the theatre after the success of Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull. The tour also touched on the theatre’s history during the Soviet period, including its famous production of The Days of the Turbins.
The fellows also visited two performance halls, where they learned about the theatre’s approach to experimental productions. The architecture and design of the spaces reflect the Moscow Art Theatre’s early principles: there are no traditional boxes in the auditorium, helping create a more equal experience for the audience and keep ticket prices accessible. The theatre’s history also includes a special box intended for Joseph Stalin, whose presence there was deliberately kept from the audience.
The visit gave the fellows an opportunity to see how the history, architecture and artistic principles of the Moscow Art Theatre have shaped its identity and continue to influence its work today.
The InteRussia Fellowship in Theatre Arts is implemented by Mezhdunarodniki Autonomous Non-Profit Organisation in cooperation with the Gorchakov Fund, GITIS and TV BRICS International Media Network. The programme is implemented as part of Rossotrudnichestvo’s flagship New Generation initiative with grant support from the Presidential Grants Foundation.