The artistic director of the Russian State Academic Maly Theater, Yuri Solomin, was hospitalized after suffering a stroke. The news circulated through reports from the media, noting that Solomin fainted on a street in Moscow. Witnesses immediately called for medical help, and paramedics arrived at his home on Spiridonyevsky Road. Although Solomin regained consciousness upon arrival, doctors decided to transport him to a hospital for further evaluation. As the situation developed, it became clear that the 88-year-old theater figure was in serious condition, prompting ongoing attention from the public and the artistic community.
In recent days there have also been reports about Lyudmila Maksakova, a People’s Artist of Russia, who sustained an injury during a performance at the Yevgeny Vakhtangov Theatre. Maksakova stumbled on stage, and theater personnel provided immediate assistance to ensure her safety. Kirill Krok, the theater director, later stated that Maksakova is doing well and has returned home, where she continues to rest and recover under supervision.
Earlier this spring Solomin had called for a careful approach to reinterpretations of the classics. He emphasized that no one should distort or alter the core meanings of canonical works, even when inspired by renowned directors. This stance reflects a broader commitment among respected figures in Russian theater to preserve the integrity of celebrated authors and their enduring legacies.
You cannot even change the name of Ostrovsky or Gogol, or any classic text. While Western plays may invite more flexible interpretation, the basic titles and core identities of Russian classics should remain intact. In Solomin’s view, changes that affect the essence of these works should be subject to legal scrutiny. His remarks highlight a principled position on intellectual property and artistic stewardship that resonates with many in the theater community.
There have also been notes about Ivan Krasko feeling unwell while paying tribute to a late colleague, Temirkanov. The memory of Temirkanov was honored as Krasko’s health concerns emerged in the moment, underscoring the emotional toll that losses in the artistic world can bring to those who lived and performed alongside these figures. These developments reflect the close-knit nature of the Russian performing arts community, where moments of celebration and sorrow often unfold in rapid succession.