The Union of Theatre Workers of the Russian Federation continues its active efforts to promote international cultural integration. A creative directing laboratory organized by the Centre for Support of Russian Theatre Abroad is currently being held in Ashgabat. Konstantin Gorin, head of the delegation of the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia, spoke about the purpose of the visit, the specific aspects of working with the Turkmen theatre company, and his impressions of the country.
The programme for cooperation with and support of Russian theatres abroad has existed since 2004 and is implemented with the support of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. For more than two decades, the project has contributed to the promotion of the Russian language, the preservation of the traditions of the Russian theatre school, and the strengthening of international humanitarian ties. Today, the centre’s key areas of work are field missions by Russian specialists and the organization of directing laboratories.
The theme of the current laboratory in Ashgabat was chosen for a specific reason. In honour of the 100th anniversary season of the State Russian Drama Theatre named after A. S. Pushkin in Ashgabat, the theatre’s management and the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia jointly decided to use A. S. Pushkin’s cycle “Little Tragedies” as the material for the workshop.
“Theatre is a unique cultural bridge of cooperation between Turkmenistan and Russia. Our project is aimed at making this bridge, which already exists, even stronger,” emphasized K. Gorin.
The head of the group particularly highlighted the high level of professionalism and dedication demonstrated by the actors of the Ashgabat theatre. Despite the tight schedule, the company is showing exceptional commitment. Only five days have been allocated to prepare the performances, rehearsals last more than 10 hours every day, and the actors and directors are united by a common goal: to create vivid and profound production sketches.
In addition to their intensive work at the theatre, the Russian guests also had an opportunity to become acquainted with the rich culture and history of Turkmenistan. The delegation visited the State Museum of Fine Arts, the Main National Museum, and the city’s theatres. According to K. Gorin, the opportunity to explore the country’s historical heritage generated genuine enthusiasm among the members of the group, while the organizers and local residents surrounded the guests with care and warm hospitality.
