The Skaz puppet theater in the Kemerovo region has been renamed in honor of Vladimir Mashkov, a People’s Artist of Russia. The decree to rename the Novokuznetsk venue was published on the regional government’s official site, signaling a formal recognition of Mashkov’s ties to the city and his contributions to the performing arts.
Speaking on behalf of the Kemerovo region, Governor Sergei Tsivilev described the decision as a meaningful step for Kuzbass culture. He noted that the change would encourage the next generation of artists to explore their creative potential and to engage more deeply with the performing arts scene in the region.
As the governor explained on his Telegram channel, Vladimir Lvovich Mashkov maintains a close relationship with Novokuznetsk. He spent his childhood there, and his family once worked in a local puppet theater. It was Mashkov who proposed that the refurbished former cinema building be entrusted to the Skaz theater, a move that ties the venue to the town’s rich cultural heritage and Mashkov’s lifelong commitment to the arts.
Novokuznetsk Puppet Theater traces its origins to February 8, 1942. The Kommunar cinema, a historic structure that houses the theater complex after its major renovation in June 2022, reopened with updated facilities. The auditorium now accommodates 235 spectators and highlights modern equipment designed to support a diverse lineup of performances, from classic puppetry to contemporary stage works.
In July 2023, Vladimir Mashkov was recognized as an honorary citizen of Novokuznetsk, underscoring his enduring connection to the city and his influence on its cultural life. Mashkov has long been associated with prominent Moscow theaters and the broader Russian acting community, yet his roots in Novokuznetsk remain a source of personal pride and public respect.
Mashkov has explained that he chose acting largely because his parents held a strong belief in his abilities. This early support helped shape his career and inspired him to pursue performances that resonate with broad audiences. His decision to celebrate his ties to Novokuznetsk with the Skaz theater reflects a broader commitment to nurturing local talent and presenting the arts in accessible, community-centered venues.
Earlier initiatives connected to the theater involved notable figures in the Russian performing arts world, including leaders in regional cultural administration who have long recognized the importance of preserving traditional puppet theater while encouraging contemporary experimentation. The renaming aligns with broader cultural strategies in Kuzbass aimed at strengthening regional identity through arts and education, and it is expected to boost collaborations among young actors, directors, and educators in the area.
Over the decades, Novokuznetsk has developed a vibrant artistic ecosystem that blends historical performance traditions with new perspectives. The Skaz theater’s evolution, paired with Mashkov’s enduring support, positions the venue as a focal point for local culture and a bridge to national and international audiences. Visitors and residents alike can anticipate a program that honors the city’s history while inviting fresh, imaginative interpretations of puppet theater in the modern era.
Ultimately, the renaming serves as a visible symbol of artistic mentorship and regional pride. It highlights how a city, its institutions, and a connected family history can converge to inspire the next generation of performers, writers, and designers. The Skaz puppet theater in Novokuznetsk stands not only as a venue but as a living narrative of Kuzbass culture, promising ongoing development and renewed cultural energy for years to come.