St. Petersburg’s a stage, and we are mere actors
#Saint-Petersburg

St. Petersburg is the homeland of talented ballerinas, so delicate and statuesque you’d think they were made from porcelain. We were lucky to meet one of the most wonderful dancers of today - Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova). Not only, does this 26 years old beauty grace the stage of the Theatre of Classical Ballet in St. Petersburg, but she also captures everything that goes on behind those incredible decorations. The behind the scenes drama, the bloody feet, the discarded pointe shoes lying lifeless in the corner, the creased tutus, and faces filled with every emotion possible, from smiles of joy to tears of terror. Through her lens the theatre life shines in new, intriguing colours, becomes deeper and more feminine. We asked her to share with us her favourite photographs and tell us about the most awaited events of the upcoming season. To come here and not go to the theatre is like going to Kamchatka and not trying crabs.

St. Petersburg is, in many ways, a very theatrical city. My whole family is very involved in it and it has become my profession, so it’s not surprising that I’m completely aware of the current events in this sphere.

I will gladly tell you about my favourite theatrical places in St. Petersburg and the most interesting premieres of the new season, as well as, sharing a few helpful life hacks on how not to spend a fortune on those tickets. Obviously, I’ll start with ballet!

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

1.

The Vaganova Prix competition is an absolute must, it will take place in the Alexandrinsky Theatre and the gala concert will be held at the Mariinsky Theatre. Although you probably won’t be able to get tickets to the final show, you may still get to see the preliminary rounds at a reasonable price. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the luxurious Alexandrinsky Theatre.

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

2.

Premiere of “La Sylphide” at the Mikhailovsky Classical Ballet and Opera Theatre with the revival of choreography by Mikhail Messerer. I’m sure everyone is quite aware of just how exquisite this theatre is. Hurry up and get your tickets now!

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

3.

Every self respecting traveller who comes to this city has to visit the Mariinsky Theatre at least once. For those who enjoy the classics I’d recommend purchasing a ticket for the “Swan Lake”, and those seeking something a little more modern - see the unusual and avant-garde “Park”, staged at the new location Mariinsky-2.

Photo: Daryan Volkova (@darianvolkova)

Now, a little more about the drama.

1.

I really love small stages. One of my favourites is the small stage of the Molodezny theatre on the Fontanka street. This theatre has its own little garden where you can pleasantly enjoy your time while waiting for the play to start. A few years ago, they opened up the Grand stage, but I still prefer the smaller one. Here, one hour before the start of the play you can purchase the “no seat” ticket at a very low price, you will be sitting on the steps, but trust me, it’s worth it. The most amazing thing about this whole situation, is that the stage is unified with the hall where the audience is seated, so the actors can approach the viewer really closely- so close that you just can’t help but dissolve into the atmosphere. I especially recommend seeing “Zavoronok”, “Three Sisters” and “Kasatka”.

2.

There is another “power place”, that not many people know about. And those who do, visit it on regular basis. It’s the Teaching Theatre on the Mokhovaya street, it belongs to the Theatre Academy. Here, young actors, directors and graduates try their hand at acting, directing and so on, for the very first time. This place is especially unique because its actors aren’t afraid to experiment and you can often witness extremely interesting plays that you won’t see anywhere else. For instance, three years ago I went to see the “Kys’” play, based upon the novel of the same name by Tatyana Tolstaya. I enjoyed the book, but the play exceeded all of my expectations - it was an incredibly powerful performance. I have been a regular here ever since, and always keep track of the newest plays.

Photo: Daria Pichugina

In reality, it is extremely hard to decide where to go in St. Petersburg; there is so much beauty, it overwhelms you: the ballet, the conservatory, the philharmonic society, the drama and children’s theatre, the experimental performance art, etc. Sometimes, you just have to trust that inner voice and follow it wherever it may lead you.

Where are we right now?

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