Vakhtangov Theater Brings Mozart, Pushkin and the Human Spirit to Shanghai

Russia's Vakhtangov Theater will premiere two major productions, "Amadeus" and "Pushkin Tales," in Shanghai in November.

The two works, directed by Anatoly Shulyev, the theater's current artistic director, are based on classic texts and explore the legendary life of a musical genius and Pushkin's writing about ordinary people's joys and sorrows.

"Amadeus" delves into the intricate and nuanced relationship between Mozart and Salieri. The director weaves together Mozart's music, letters, and historical context into the narrative.

As Mozart completes his Requiem and approaches the end of his life, Salieri confronts more than just a rival; he grapples with profound questions regarding fate and the significance of art.

Premiered in 2024, "Pushkin Tales" is an adaptation of Pushkin's "The Tales of Belkin" and celebrates the 225th anniversary of the birth of the renowned Russian literary figure.

The production is set on four stories: "The Squire's Daughter," "The Shot," "The Blizzard," and "The Stationmaster," and arranges them in a seasonal order: spring and summer, autumn, winter, and spring again.

The stories incorporate Pushkin's romantic verses. With the stage design's negative space, lighting, and changing colors, characters of different identities and circumstances cross paths and have their lives rewritten through love, revenge, separation, and reunion.

Performance info

Amadeus

Dates: November 11-12, 7:15pm

Pushkin Tales

Dates: November 14, 7:15pm; November 15, 2pm

Tickets: 280-1,080 yuan

Venue: Shanghai Oriental Art Center 上海东方艺术中心

Address: 425 Dingxiang Rd 丁香路425号