Moscow’s cultural landscape is abuzz with a renewed energy as the legendary Oleg Tabakov Theatre, affectionately known as “Tabakerka,” reopens its historic stage on Chaplygina Street following extensive renovations. This isn`t merely a physical revival; it marks a symbolic return to roots, coinciding serendipitously with what would have been the iconic founder Oleg Tabakov’s 90th birthday. At the helm of this theatrical renaissance is Vladimir Mashkov, the esteemed artistic director not only of Tabakerka but also of the Sovremennik Theatre, who has grand plans for both institutions, firmly placing his bets on the vibrant potential of a new generation.
A Legacy Reaffirmed: Tabakerka`s Youthful Vision
Traditionally, theatrical seasons kick off with a grand troupe gathering and an artistic director`s address. However, Mashkov chose a more poetic timing, unveiling the new season’s ambitions immediately after the ribbon-cutting for the historic Chaplygina Street stage. It was a fitting tribute to Oleg Tabakov, whom Mashkov reverently refers to as the “heavenly artistic director.” The reopening, a significant milestone for Tabakov’s “child,” feels like a monumental birthday gift to the late Master, a testament to his enduring vision.
Mashkov’s core philosophy for the revitalized “underground” theatre is strikingly clear: it will serve as a crucible for emerging talent, echoing Tabakov’s founding principle. It’s a deliberate, almost audacious, commitment to nurturing the next wave of theatrical innovators. “This space,” Mashkov proclaimed, “is designed to unlock the creative potential of our youth, just as Oleg Pavlovich always envisioned.”
New Blood, Bold Productions: On Tabakerka`s Boards
The upcoming season at Tabakerka promises a feast of fresh perspectives. No fewer than three new directors will take the reins, besides other collaborative projects. In October, audiences can anticipate “With Loved Ones, Don`t Part” by Alexander Volodin, a poignant play directed by Artur Kasimov, featuring the promising talents of Sevastyan Smyshnikov and Nelli Khaperskaya in lead roles.
Sevastyan Smyshnikov isn`t stopping at acting; he’s also stepping into the director`s chair. His critically acclaimed previous work, “Call Sign Silence,” will transition to the historic stage, and he is currently developing “Trouble from a Tender Heart” by Vladimir Sollogub. Details on the latter’s premiere are still under wraps, but the excitement is palpable.
May will see the directorial debut of Vladislav Miller, who will present Gor Nikolaev’s “Stellar Hour Local Time.” Mashkov, with a nostalgic glint in his eye, shared his personal connection to this piece:
“You probably don`t remember such a play. It`s absolutely stunning! And it has a sequel. It so happened that I staged this play myself when I first arrived at the Tabakov Theatre. We put it together independently: stole a fence and a bench from the street somewhere, showed it to Oleg Pavlovich, and he accepted it into the repertoire. And it ran successfully!”
Miller, clearly inspired by his mentor, noted that young artists learn directing not just from teachers, but from Mashkov himself, who “was and remains an actor first and foremost.” He expressed his anticipation: “It’s very exciting. God grant us to walk this path responsibly, honorably. I believe that Evgeny Mironov, for instance, was born as an artist in this very work. Moreover, it resonates so modernly. We want to look at this work through the prism of today.”
Adding to the diversity, Alena Lapteva will direct a thriller titled “The Choice.” For younger audiences, a collective of Tabakerka artists—Maxim Sachkov, Yana Sekste, Alexey Usoltsev, and Mikhail Shugarev—will collaborate on a production of “Dunno.” The season also marks the return of beloved productions like “The Elder Son” and “Night at the Hotel,” which will kick off the theatrical year.
Sovremennik`s Dynamic Chapter
Not to be overshadowed, the Sovremennik Theatre also has an ambitious season planned under Mashkov’s guidance. They commenced with a revised edition of Alena Lapteva’s “The Desire to Live,” a play that once relied heavily on the unique stage machinery of its previous venue on Sukharevskaya Street. Mashkov acknowledged the challenge: “Sovremennik, unfortunately, doesn’t have such capabilities. But we created new scenery, a special revolving stage, did a lot of work, and the cast performed, I believe, successfully.” It seems a lack of technology only fuels artistic ingenuity.
A particularly intriguing addition to Sovremennik`s repertoire is “That No. 13,” a production steeped in the traditions of Russian psychological theatre. This play has a storied past: Mashkov initially staged its first version with Oleg Tabakov at MXAT in the early 2000s, later producing a second. Now, through an agreement with Konstantin Khabensky, artistic director of the A.P. Chekhov Moscow Art Theatre, a new rendition of this production will grace the Sovremennik stage. “Can you imagine?” Mashkov recalled, “Oleg Pavlovich would fly onto the stage himself; he loved the atmosphere (of this play) so much!” A clear sign that some theatrical magic is simply too potent to stay confined to one address.
Moscow`s Enduring Theatrical Soul
The reopening of Tabakerka`s historic stage and the dual season announcements by Vladimir Mashkov underscore a vibrant and forward-thinking period for Moscow’s theatre scene. It’s a powerful blend of honoring the profound legacy of Oleg Tabakov while courageously embracing the raw energy and fresh perspectives of a new generation. This emphasis on youth, coupled with a commitment to both innovative new works and carefully reimagined classics, ensures that the theatrical heart of Moscow will continue to beat with intensity, drawing audiences into stories both familiar and boldly new. Indeed, the stage is set for a season where history and innovation dance in a compelling dramatic duet.
