Merchant Vasa Zheleznova Casts Yulia Perecild as the Russian Rooster Character
Headline: Yulia Peresild's Reimagined "Vassa Zheleznova" Hits the National Theatre
Photos: Courtesy of National Theatre/Ivan Ponomarenko
Yulia Peresild, the charismatic actress, steps out from behind the director's chair and delves into the leading role with gusto in her self-proclaimed production. Don't let her humble modesty fool you; she's the queen pinning together this theatrical masterpiece.
New Year's Eve at the Zhizhnev household – laughter and cheer seem to abound, yet a gnawing pain suffuses the festivities, hinting at unspoken discord. Peresild's portrayal of Vasya Zhizhneva walks a precarious tightrope, striving to mend fractured relationships, to restore the battered "cup" – at a high cost.
Curiously, Peresild shared on social media that rehearsals for this production have been underway since February, with her carefully transcribing both editions of Maxim Gorky's "Vassa Zheleznova" into a pristine notebook for easier memorization.
"Vassa," Peresild muses, "was once a goddess believing she could dictate fate; lost in life, vainly clinging to her home, family, and business. Vassa, a strong, determined woman, convinced of her invincibility, was overwhelmed by circumstances."
Although Peresild's Vassa stands as an unyielding merchantess, she's also a "human woman" – a long-suffering spouse, nurturing mother, fighting tooth and nail for her dream of a harmonious family. "Life," Peresild laments, "is no gentle mother; rather, a demanding taskmaster."
This production of "Vassa Zheleznova" incorporates elements from both the 1910 and 1935 editions, plus shards from other works by Maxim Gorky, such as "The Life of Klim Samgin."
Photos: Courtesy of National Theatre/Ivan Ponomarenko
Music stands as a vital element of this production, with the traditional folk song "Ai, I'll Tie a White Scarf" harmonizing alongside Soviet anthems "The Steamer" and "The Volga River Flows," and "School of Life" by "Nul" echoing in the background. The indelible leitmotif of the production is the timeless ballad "If You Can, Forgive."
Costumes were meticulously crafted by artist Nadya Vasilyeva. Clad in vibrant carnival garb reminiscent of winter-time Christmas ornaments adorned with shattered glass, the characters exude an undeniable air of occasion and nostalgia – including Vasilyeva herself, donning a traditional Russian kokoshnik adorned with the fashion of early 1900s masked balls.
Cast Members: Yulia Khlynina, Aleksey Vertkov/Vitaliy Kischenko, Aleksandr Devyatyarov, Inna Sukhoretskaya, and other talented actors round out the ensemble.
Location: National Theatre
Dates: June 9 and 10
Price: Tickets range from 6500 to 10000 rubles.
For more on Yulia Peresild's captivating journey as an actress and director, check out our exclusive articles, "The Secret Life of Julia Peresild's New Beau: What We Know About Mikhail Milashin's Career and Earnings". And, if you're a TV enthusiast, don't miss out on our comprehensive rundown of the June television premieres, "Not Just Season Three of 'Squid Game': What TV Series Premieres to Expect in June".
This production of "Vassa Zheleznova" delves into the lifestyle of its characters, with Yulia Peresild portraying a strong yet human Vassa, balancing her role as a merchantess with her personal life. The entertainment aspect is also highlighted, as the production features a blend of traditional Russian music and costumes.
