In the bustling cultural heart of Moscow, where tradition often dances with modernity, the Moscow Provincial Theatre (MGT) has bravely thrown open its doors for its **thirteenth season**, boldly defying any lingering superstitions associated with the number. Under the visionary guidance of Artistic Director Sergey Bezrukov, this institution is not just embarking on another year of performances; it`s charting a course for unprecedented theatrical innovation and expansion.
A Celebration of Stagecraft and Spirit
The air in the theatre foyer was thick with an almost palpable sense of reunion and exhilaration. Actors, directors, and staff, refreshed from their summer hiatus, shared enthusiastic greetings. Within minutes, the auditorium buzzed with anticipation, filled with patrons eager to witness the customary opening festivities.
Before the curtain even had a chance to rise, a notable ceremony unfolded. Artistic Director Sergey Bezrukov himself, alongside actress Galina Bakashevskaya, was awarded the prestigious “Medal for Strengthening Combat Commonwealth” by order of the Russian Minister of Defense. A curious honor for a theatrical opening, perhaps, but one that underscores the diverse forms of public service and recognition that cultural figures can command in contemporary Russia.
The traditional “kapustnik” followed, a uniquely Russian theatrical cabaret, this time styled as a playful “confession” where performers comically “repented” before their smiling artistic director. Such informal, high-spirited gatherings have become a beloved hallmark of the MGT, fostering a sense of camaraderie and intimate connection between the artists and their audience.
New Faces, Federal Status, and Acclaimed Works
This season`s curtain call also introduced five fresh talents to the MGT ensemble: Sofia Grigoryeva-Alexandrova, Ekaterina Skrypnik, Arseny Muravyov, Timofey Klyaver, and Elizaveta Polshina. Their induction signifies the theatre’s commitment to nurturing new blood and ensuring a vibrant future for Russian stagecraft.
Bezrukov took the opportunity to reflect on a pivotal past year, noting that 2024 saw MGT elevate its status to a federal theatre, a significant milestone. Furthermore, MGT’s acclaimed production of “The Captain`s Daughter,” directed by Bezrukov, earned the “Best Performance” accolade at the prestigious MK Theatre Award, cementing its critical success.
A Season of Bold Premieres: From Classic Drama to Hip-Hop Gogol
The highlight of Bezrukov`s address was the announcement of an ambitious slate: nine new premieres. Audiences can look forward to Grigory Lifanov`s staging of Vampilov`s “The Elder Son” as early as September. However, it`s the November premiere that truly promises to turn heads:
A “hip-hop spectacle” adaptation of Gogol`s satirical masterpiece, “The Inspector General – Freestyle.” This unexpected fusion of 19th-century Russian literature with contemporary urban music might raise an eyebrow or two, but Bezrukov remains steadfast in his belief in experimentation. “I always say how magnificent our artists are, they can do anything,” he affirmed. “They are always interested in experimenting, so it doesn`t get boring.” A bold statement, indeed, and one that suggests the Moscow Provincial Theatre is anything but predictable.
Looking further ahead into 2026, the theatre will present a musical rendition of Evgeny Schwartz’s whimsical play, “An Ordinary Miracle.” International collaboration is also on the cards, with Greek director Vassilios Samourkas bringing his vision of Aristophanes` comedy “The Frogs” to the MGT stage. This diverse lineup is, notably, just a partial glimpse into the theatre`s forthcoming productions.
The Symphony of Theatrical Excellence
A distinctive feature of MGT, and one often highlighted by Bezrukov, is its deep commitment to musical productions. The theatre boasts its own versatile orchestra, capable of performing an eclectic range of genres. “They play everything: from jazz and classical to rock,” Bezrukov proudly stated, showcasing the institution`s impressive musical breadth and commitment to artistic flexibility.
The vibrant opening concluded with over twenty staff members receiving commemorative badges, a nod to the theatre`s decennial anniversary, a testament to a decade of dedication and achievement.
As the Moscow Provincial Theatre embarks on its thirteenth season, it does so not with trepidation, but with a daring spirit of innovation and a firm commitment to captivating audiences with diverse, high-quality, and occasionally, surprisingly modern, theatrical experiences. This is a theatre unafraid to reinterpret classics, embrace new talent, and quite literally, march to the beat of its own drum – or perhaps, its own hip-hop track.
