Bornean elephant from the Teresa Durova Theatre: all the colours of an Eastern bazaar at the National Centre RUSSIA

An extraordinary exhibit welcomes guests to the National Centre RUSSIA: an enormous elephant standing almost three metres tall. It is a fully fledged theatre character that can move, dance and amaze audiences. The elephant has temporarily taken up residence in the "Hard Scenery Workshop" section of the "Legacy. Theatre. The Greats" exposition, marking the 150th anniversary of the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia. The project is being implemented with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation and the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives.

The large-scale art object was created in 2012 for the musical production "The Scarlet Flower" at the Teresa Durova Theatre. The elephant was designed by People's Artist of the Russian Federation Maria Rybasova. Its dimensions are every bit as impressive as the stage character itself: it stands 2 metres 40 centimetres tall and measures 4 metres 20 centimetres long, matching the size of a real Bornean elephant. The animal's appearance with an Indian jewellery merchant seated on her back is a key moment in the Eastern bazaar scene. It is not merely a change of scenery, but an entire event that highlights the scale of the action and leaves audiences transfixed with delight.

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

The elephant is built around a sturdy metal frame covered with foam rubber and velvet. Bright caparisons, numerous beads, pendants and bracelets adorn it — any extravagant fashion lover might envy its luxurious outfit and accessories. In India, elephants are decorated in precisely this way as a sign of love and respect. On the theatre stage, this tradition is brought to life through sublimation printing, hand painting, intricate embroidery and other techniques.

Most remarkably, the elephant can move. Hidden wheels, discreetly guided by several members of the company, make this possible. Alongside the actors, the scenery seems to dance — lightly, gracefully and almost magically, although this effect is created through the complex, coordinated work of a large team.

The elephant, which has become one of the most striking stage sets at the Teresa Durova Theatre, can be seen at the National Centre RUSSIA until 25 September. Admission to the exposition is free. Advance registration on the russia.ru website is required to join a guided tour.