Director Konstantin Bogomolov has been candid about guiding audiences toward a deeper engagement with his work, a process he described as gradually acclimating theatergoers. This insight came to light through reports from RIA News.
He recalled the early days of his stage career when audiences often exited during premieres. In one notable example, 150 of 800 spectators left the curtain of “An Ideal Husband,” and 300 of 800 departed during a performance of “Karamazov.” Bogomolov, known for his bold and unforgettable productions, has built a reputation around stirring public reaction as much as delivering dramatic craft.
Today, the Karamazovs enjoy full houses, with audiences staying through the entire five-hour spectacle for ten years running. The director shared that a full house endures to the final moment, a testament to the show’s lasting appeal and the company’s stamina.
Bogomolov believes that strong public response, whether it is praise or critique, fuels interest in his work. He argues that talent alone is not enough in his field; character is essential for sustaining a demanding artistic career.
There are moments when reaction is loud and even ferocious, and Bogomolov notes that such uproar can attract attention that benefits a production in the long run.
In September, Bogomolov’s production of the play Mother entered a new phase after a period of anticipation in late August and early September 2024. The director, collaborating with his regular team, is preparing a staging inspired by Maxim Gorky’s novel of the same name. The creative group includes production designer Larisa Lomakina, video artist Alan Mandelstam, and lighting designer Ivan Vinogradov, each contributing to a contemporary interpretation of the classic work.
Earlier, Alexander Lazarev leveled accusations of provocations at Bogomolov, illustrating the volatile nature of his public profile and the ongoing discourse surrounding his provocative approach to theater.