Susanna Tsiryuk has stepped into the role of chief director at the Alexander Bryantsev Youth Theater in Saint Petersburg, marking a significant milestone in a journey that spans several renowned stages. The appointment signifies a fresh chapter for the theater and its audience, inviting a new creative voice to shape both the repertoire and the stagecraft that define this esteemed institution.
Tsiryuk described taking the helm at the Bryantsev Youth Theater as a profound honor and a source of personal happiness. He emphasized that the theater’s concept resonates deeply with him, reflecting a belief in the power of performance to connect with young people and foster a lifelong engagement with the arts. In his remarks, he highlighted the exceptional talents and skills of the ensemble, noting how the unity of the group elevates every production and creates a dynamic, collaborative atmosphere on and off the stage. He also expressed admiration for the latest musical by Alexei Frandetti, An Ordinary Miracle, praising its creativity, emotional range, and execution as a benchmark for the company’s ambitions.
The new director clarified that his scope will extend beyond traditional music theatre. He envisions a varied season in which different genres are presented to broaden the theater’s appeal and allow audiences to experience a spectrum of emotions and storytelling approaches. This approach aims to reach a wider cross-section of viewers and provide opportunities for collaboration with artists from multiple disciplines. The goal, as articulated, is to foster experiences that linger with the audience long after the curtain falls, encouraging reflection and conversation about contemporary life through performance.
Tsiryuk brings a wealth of experience to the Bryantsev stage, having previously directed productions at the Belarusian Academic Opera and Ballet Theater. He has also held directorial roles at the Mariinsky Theatre, one of the world’s most storied stages for classical performance. Earlier in his career, from 2001 to 2006, he served as chief director of the Rostov State Musical Theater, where he helped shape a repertoire that balanced traditional works with innovative productions. This background informs his philosophy that theatre should be accessible, emotionally resonant, and capable of inviting audiences to explore new perspectives through live performance.
Meanwhile, there has been talk about changes beyond the Bryantsev stage. It was reported that the Petersburg Youth Theater might rename a festival to Rainbow, signaling a potential shift in branding and programming that could emphasize inclusivity, discovery, and a broader cultural dialogue. Whether this proposed name change will come to fruition remains a topic of discussion among theater professionals and audiences alike, as the city’s vibrant performing arts scene continues to evolve and respond to contemporary tastes and broader social conversations.