The former public relations head of the Moscow Art Theatre has weighed in on a bold plan to expand Moscow’s theatrical landscape. He supported Eduard Boyakov’s concept for a fresh experimental theatre in the capital, suggesting the project could become a true energy and spiritual hub for the city. In conversations with socialbites.ca, he described the initiative as a compelling opportunity to inject vitality into Moscow’s cultural life and to anchor a new center of artistic exploration within the metropolis.
He expressed longstanding belief that Boyakov and his team are at the forefront of Russia’s contemporary theatre scene. The speaker highlighted the significance of the project’s location, noting that the Saltykov-Chertkov mansion on Myasnitskaya Street could soon emerge as one of the most radiant sites on Moscow’s theatrical map. The observation reflects a broader conviction that this new theatre could rival the city’s most renowned venues for artistic experimentation and audience engagement.
According to the interview, audiences already anticipating the return of the Mkhatov Lavr and its new ventures are likely to respond positively to Boyakov’s forthcoming project. The public’s appetite for the values embodied in Boyakov’s work was described as substantial, a sentiment that resonated during his tenure at the Moscow Art Theatre and continues to drive interest in his new creative directions.
Eduard Boyakov’s recent role as artistic director of the Moscow Art Theatre spanned from December 2018 through November 2021. His departure followed changes in leadership, with Vladimir Kekhman assuming the position of general director. Reports indicate that Boyakov resigned after a suggestion from Kekhman led him to submit a formal statement, and several colleagues, including Ampelonsky, chose to leave with him. The shift marked a turning point in the theatre’s administration and creative priorities, setting the stage for new collaborations and artistic risks.
In recent statements, Boyakov has announced a forward-looking project named Practice, which is described as the opening act for a larger initiative called Polytheater. This new venture is presented as a natural continuation of Boyakov’s earlier work at the Moscow Art Theatre, with the plan to establish a dedicated experimental theatre that would expand the current repertoire and broaden the scope of performance practices visible to audiences. The new complex is planned to be housed at the historic Saltykov-Chertkov estate, a landmark site on Myasnitskaya Street that has long been associated with Moscow’s cultural heritage.
Industry observers note that the proposal aligns with a broader movement in Russian theatre toward immersive and avant-garde forms. Supporters emphasize the potential impact on training and collaboration, offering opportunities for emerging directors, designers, and performers to experiment outside traditional formats. The envisioned space would serve not only as a venue but also as a living laboratory for creative risk-taking, audience participation, and cross-disciplinary partnerships. Markers of success include renewed public engagement, elevated critical discourse, and a steady stream of innovative productions that attract both local residents and visiting aficionados. In this context, the project is seen as a strategic extension of Moscow’s reputation as a global hub for performing arts, contributing to the city’s cultural economy and international dialogue about contemporary theatre. The discussed plans also reflect a commitment to preserving the architectural and historical value of the estate while repurposing its interiors for modern performance needs. Citations from theatre archives and industry analyses corroborate the expectation that the project will influence dialogue around space-making and the future of live theatre in Russia. (citation: Moscow Theatre Archives; industry commentary reports).