Primorsky Youth Theater opens its doors for Theater Workers' Day celebrations
Behind-the-Scenes Mysteries, Improv Shows, and More: Primorsky Youth Theater Celebrates the Stage
Interactive backstage tours, the improvised performance Once Upon a Time—where the audience shares their own stories—an unconventional production called Theatrical Route, and much more. The Primorsky Youth Theater is marking Theater Workers' Day with a flourish, culminating on March 27 in the Night of Theatrical Art.
For most people, stepping onto a theater stage means presenting flowers to beloved actors after a performance or claiming a prize in an audience contest. But the Night of Theatrical Art shattered stereotypes at the Youth Theater, inviting visitors of all ages on a journey behind the curtain.
Actors Olesya Belokon and Sergey Ryumkin offered a detailed look at what goes into a theatrical production. Where are the sets stored? What lies hidden in the labyrinthine backstage corridors, shielded from prying eyes? How did the theater's historic building look just a few years ago, and what miracles did the restorers perform?
"This is an intimate, conversational tour—a heartfelt exchange with our audience," Belokon shared. "In many ways, the audience becomes the co-creator of the experience. They ask questions, delve into every detail, and we share theatrical tales and funny backstage stories."
Children are especially curious about the technical side: how the stage machinery works, who raises and lowers the curtain. They eagerly ride the revolving stage, visit the props and costume departments, and soak it all in.
In the lead-up to Theater Workers' Day, anyone could try their hand at acting. The Youth Theater launched a contest called Theater in One Frame.
"Audiences were invited to recreate a favorite character, scene, or theatrical emotion, film a short video, and post it online. The best entries will receive special surprises," the theater's press service noted.
During the Night of Theatrical Art, spectators became the creators of Once Upon a Time, an improvised performance where audience members share their own stories—joyful, sorrowful, or comedic—then watch them unfold onstage. The therapeutic effect is guaranteed.
On March 29, Theater Week will close with Theatrical Route, an interactive performance-tour where fairy-tale characters guide young viewers as they transform into directors and aspiring actors.
The Night of Theatrical Art initiative marks the 150th anniversary of the Russian Union of Theater Workers and is supported by the Primorsky Krai Ministry of Culture and Archives. Events are taking place in theaters and cultural institutions across Vladivostok, Ussuriysk, and Chernigovka.
