Bratsk Mayor Sergey Serebrennikov weighed in on the decision to cancel the staging of the play “Goat Island,” which had been set to run on the stage of the Bratsk Drama Theater. His remarks appeared on his Telegram channel, where he often shares civic reflections and governance updates with residents and supporters alike. In explaining his stance, Serebrennikov articulated a view that blends respect for artistic expression with the responsibilities that come with public performance in a regional cultural hub. He stressed that while any work of art may provoke discussion and sometimes discomfort among viewers, art itself should have the power to unite people and spark hope, even when moments are tough. He framed the cancellation not as a verdict against creativity but as a measured pause that respects the varied sensibilities of the audience and the broader social climate in which the theater operates.
He acknowledged that the particular group of viewers who raised concerns about the production may not represent the theater’s primary audience, yet he stood by the management’s decision to suspend the show. The mayor highlighted the Bratsk Drama Theater’s rich and beloved repertoire, noting that its past and present offerings have drawn steady attendance and strong public support. When a new piece enters the season and evokes mixed reactions, he suggested, it is prudent for theater leadership to pause and reassess, ensuring the overall program continues to meet high standards and to resonate with the community. In his view, such a decision should be seen as a responsible choice that protects the theater’s ongoing mission to entertain, challenge, and educate without alienating a broad audience base.
Serebrennikov further emphasized that the city government and the network of local businesses—an ecosystem that sustains the Bratsk cultural scene—will continue to back the theater through thoughtful investment and ongoing collaboration. His message echoed timeless maxims that have guided public life for generations: that every endeavor has its proper season, and that the welfare of the community can be advanced by careful, harm-free action. He closed by reaffirming a spirit of prudence and partnership, calling on all stakeholders to view this moment as part of a longer arc toward stronger, more resilient cultural institutions in Bratsk.
Earlier reports highlighted a different production path, noting that a version adapted from Hugo Betti’s play led to public controversy after its premiere. One audience member expressed strong objections on social media, alleging that the performance contained scenes described as incest-promoting and featuring explicit imagery. The critic then lodged their concerns with the local culture committee, prompting discussions about boundaries in contemporary theater and how provocative material should be approached in a regional context. The episode underscored the ongoing tension between artistic experimentation and community standards, a balance many theatres navigate as they chart their seasonal programs and engage with diverse audience segments.