Moscow’s theatrical community recently convened for a remarkable evening at the Russian Academic Youth Theatre (RAMT), a place once known as the Central Children`s Theatre (CDT). The occasion? The 100th birth anniversary of the legendary director Anatoly Efros, whose pioneering spirit reshaped Russian theatre. More than a mere commemoration, the event was a vibrant tapestry woven with personal anecdotes, insightful reflections, and the enduring magic of his work.
The Formative Years: A Revolutionary Vision at CDT
Anatoly Efros first graced the stage of the CDT in 1953, and it was here, in 1954, that his production of Viktor Rozov’s “In Good Hour!” catapulted him to national recognition. For a decade, Efros transformed the “children`s” theatre into a vital platform for mature, honest dialogue, attracting an unprecedented adult audience. As Alexei Borodin, the current Artistic Director of RAMT, eloquently put it, Efros made the CDT “the most honest theatre,” daring to speak to the profound concerns of humanity, regardless of age.
A Stage Full of Memories: The Distinguished Assembly
On September 30, 2025, the very stage where Efros began his illustrious career became the intimate setting for this nostalgic gathering. Among the esteemed guests were two of his most prominent actresses, Olga Yakovleva and Olga Ostroumova, director Mikhail Levitin, former Bolshoi Theatre director Vladimir Urin, and even the descendants of playwrights Viktor Rozov and Alexander Khmelik. Seated directly on the stage, these figures, alongside many other theatre professionals, shared a collective moment of reflection, extending what was planned as a 90-minute evening into a rich two-hour experience.
Reliving the Magic: Modern Homage to a Master
The evening commenced with a captivating performance directed by theatre actor Alexei Mishakov. Young, contemporary actors, embodying “six characters in search of an author,” brought Efros’s texts to life. They seamlessly transitioned between fragments of Shakespeare, Chekhov, and Rozov, attempting to capture the unique, almost “unachievable” atmosphere Efros created – an atmosphere where, as Mikhail Levitin later described, one could feel “the sky fall.” This segment served as a powerful reminder that Efros’s artistic principles continue to inspire and challenge new generations.
Voices from the Past: Insightful Tributes
The second part of the evening saw heartfelt tributes from those who knew Efros best. Alexei Borodin shared a deeply personal account of Efros’s influence, admitting to shedding tears upon his passing. Mikhail Levitin offered a compelling analysis, noting Efros’s uncanny “ability to anticipate events” and his unique gift for injecting fresh talent into what was often a stagnant theatrical environment. Gennady Sayfulin, who started his career at CDT under Efros, expressed profound gratitude for the theatrical foundations laid by the master, recalling plays like “My Friend Kolka” and “The Flower of Seven Colors,” the latter famously attracting no children, only adults.
The Weight of Memory: Unspoken Words and Enduring Truths
Perhaps one of the most intriguing moments came from Olga Yakovleva. Instead of sharing her own recollections, she read a lengthy archival text by her former co-star, Vladimir Kachan, which poetically compared Efros`s period at the Taganka Theatre to “a dahlia in nettles.” Despite her initial disclaimer that it might be “boring,” the audience, eager for her personal insights, questioned why she remained silent. Her explanation was succinct yet profound: “To describe Efros, even for an hour, is quite difficult. The mood isn`t always right, nor is the time. I`ve written a book, and everything about him is there. It`s an entire life. How can it be told?” Her words offered a glimpse into the immense, almost inexpressible, depth of Efros`s legacy. Olga Ostroumova, equally reserved, simply added that Efros was an “inspired man.”
A Legacy Reaffirmed, A Community Reunited
The evening, spearheaded by RAMT’s chief director Marina Brusnikina, concluded with a former CDT activist from the audience sharing her vivid memories of Efros`s plays. Yet, the true finale unfolded organically: guests lingered long after the formal program, embracing, conversing, and posing for photographs on stage. It was a poignant reunion for many who hadn’t seen each other in years, a testament to the enduring bonds forged under Efros’s direction and the lasting impact of his visionary approach to theatre. Anatoly Efros’s centenary was not just a historical marker; it was a vibrant confirmation that true artistic genius, like a well-tended garden, continues to blossom through time, enriching lives and inspiring new generations.
