In Nizhny Novgorod, the play Einstein and Margarita, featuring actors Ksenia Rapport and Alexei Serebryakov, was canceled. This information was reported by TASS, the Russian news agency. The official reasons for the cancellation have not been disclosed publicly, and the Moscow Variety Theater has not indicated that it plans to suspend performances of the production at this time. (TASS)
According to 76.ru, the Yaroslavl presentation of Einstein and Margarita was canceled out of consideration for public opinion. The planned show was to be held at the Millennium concert and entertainment center in Yaroslavl. The performance had originally been scheduled for February 25, then moved to February 26, and ultimately removed from the repertoire without a further public explanation. (76.ru)
Local activists voiced concerns not about the content of the production itself, but about the involvement of the performers. They criticized Ksenia Rappoport and Alexei Serebryakov, arguing that the artists reside abroad, oppose Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine, and nonetheless earn income inside Russia. These objections contributed to the surrounding controversy and stirred debate about where artists should perform and how political stances influence artistic venues. (Local activists; attribution informs the context)
The pattern of cancellations extended into 2023, when Einstein and Margarita was pulled from performances in several other cities. In February, St. Louis reportedly canceled a showing; in St. Petersburg, officials cited technical reasons; in May, Yekaterinburg halted the production without issuing an official statement; and in June, Novosibirsk removed the play following a complaint connected to a local movement named Council of Fathers. These disruptions illustrate the broader climate in some cultural circles where performances linked to public figures or controversial topics can become embroiled in political tensions. (Various outlets; attribution consolidates the timeline)
Earlier, director Yuri Grymov discussed a scandal related to the film adaptation of The Master and Margarita, suggesting that disputes surrounding literary and cinematic interpretations can spill over into stage productions. This history of intermittent sponsorship, public reaction, and administrative hesitation provides a backdrop for understanding the reception of Einstein and Margarita across multiple Russian cities. (Director Yuri Grymov; attribution references the wider media discourse)
Across regions, organizers have faced pressure from different sides—civic groups, local authorities, and audience members—creating an environment where decisions about performing such works are subject to rapid changes. The recurring theme is that public opinion, political climate, and international perceptions of Russian cultural events can shape whether a show reaches the stage or is withdrawn before audiences have a chance to see it. Observers note that the impact extends beyond a single production, influencing how theatres approach controversial material and how artists plan future engagements in markets both within and beyond Russia. (Cultural analysts and observers; attribution signals the broader context)