Morozko at the National Centre RUSSIA: a magical portal into the heart of the family

The National Centre RUSSIA will present a story that will warm every heart. Here, a grand premiere will take place – the original multi-genre show performance "Morozko". From 28 December 2025 to 14 January 2026, audiences will be invited to a series of festive family shows that will take guests on an enthralling journey into the world of Russian fairy tales. The main characters are the girl Nastenka and Morozko. Their classic story will be reimagined through the lens of the modern day.

"‘Morozko’ is more than a performance. It is our New Year gift to the entire country. It brings together folklore and innovation, ballet and opera, live action and multimedia. We preserve the traditions of the Russian fairy tale, but try to tell it in the language of the 21st century. For the National Centre RUSSIA, it is important that every production not only entertains, but awakens in audiences a sense of belonging to the country’s great culture and inspires goodness," said Deputy Director General Anastasia Zvyagina.

At the heart of the performance lies a contemporary fairy tale with a distinct national colour. As the creator of the idea, Bolshoi Theatre principal dancer Igor Tsvirko, noted, he was inspired by the joyful faces of children — and of his niece Maryana — during last year’s performance of "The Nutcracker" held at the National Centre RUSSIA.

"I wondered which Russian fairy tale, with that same spirit of family, could truly resonate with children today. The answer came immediately — ‘Morozko’. I rewatched the famous film based on the tale and realised how relevant it is. If there is a chance to adapt ‘Morozko’ to today’s realities, one must certainly try. For too long we lived under the influence of Western culture. But we all want to return to our roots, to show that Russian fairy tales are just as engaging, profound and enlightening, with wonderfully intricate storylines. And, of course, it is important that the younger generation understands that our ancestors could do everything, created everything and produced great art," said Igor Tsvirko.

The performance begins in a modern flat. In this ordinary family, there once existed a warm tradition: staging homemade performances based on Russian fairy tales on the eve of the New Year. But over time, the ritual faded, replaced by silence in which everyone is absorbed in their smartphone. The family stopped gathering together and lost the warmth of live communication.

Young Nastenka longs for the warmth that has disappeared, and on the eve of the New Year makes a desperate wish. A miracle happens: her smartphone turns into a magical portal that draws her into the enthralling — and dangerous — world of Russian fairy tales. Here, her guide and wise mentor becomes Morozko himself. Nastenka’s family sets out to find her. Each of them must face an important trial to bring the girl home, rediscover their true selves and restore their family warmth.

"Morozko" is a fusion of art and innovation. Every detail of the production creates a unique, fairy-tale atmosphere. Audiences can expect a remarkable spectacle:

— A multi-genre format: a synthesis of opera, ballet, folk and contemporary dance.

— Cinematic graphics: visuals inspired by the masterpieces of Ivan Bilibin, Viktor Vasnetsov, and both Soviet and modern animation.

— A star cast: the project will bring together leading artists of the Bolshoi Theatre, the Kremlin Ballet, soloists of the Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theatre, the Russian National Ballet "Kostroma", the folk group "Buranovskiye Babushki", actors of the theatre "U Nikitskikh Vorot" and others.

— Vivid characters: from the country’s chief Baba Yaga to a witty smart speaker named Anfisa.

— Designer costumes: they become part of the action and reflect the transformation of the characters.

Schedule of open performances:

— 28 December 2025 — 18:00;

— 30 December 2025 — 18:00;

— 6 – 11 January 2026 (daily) — 12:00;

— 14 January 2026 — 19:00.

The multi-genre performance "Morozko" is a large-scale, heartfelt and timely event for the whole family. It is a vivid reminder to audiences of all generations that the greatest miracle is the love and understanding within a family. When these exist, they can overcome any problem — from lost communication to digital estrangement.