"The 'Morozko' performance showcases genuine traditional values" — participants of the presidential programme "Time of Heroes"
On 6 January, a showing of the multi-genre performance "Morozko" took place at the National Centre RUSSIA. It was held for guests and veterans of the special military operation who participate in the presidential programme "Time of Heroes". The production, which combines theatrical art, artistic choreography, opera, ballet, folk, and modern multimedia technologies, was attended by them together with their families.
"I came to see the theatrical performance 'Morozko' at the National Centre RUSSIA together with my son. It is a Russian folk tale that carries goodness and reflects our traditional values. We are all patriots, and patriotism, besides all, includes preserving, enriching, and protecting what our ancestors passed on to us. This new version of the tale is precisely a form of preserving traditional values: it combines ballet, opera, and folklore. During the New Year holidays, on the eve of Christmas, when the whole country is having a rest, and there is more time to spend with the family, it is especially important to use such opportunities," noted Maxim Sholomov, participant of the presidential programme "Time of Heroes", Hero of Russia, Lieutenant Colonel.
Fairytales are an integral part of Russian national identity and genuine distinctiveness, which set Russia apart from other countries and reflects the features of its society and culture, emphasised Andrei Brovkin, holder of two Orders of Courage, participant of the "Time of Heroes" programme, and Director of the Special Projects Directorate at the " Corporation Tourism.RF" JSC. That is exactly why, in his opinion, the showing of the performance "Morozko" at the National Centre RUSSIA carries special symbolic meaning.
"'Morozko' is a widely-known tale we all remember well, the screen adaptation of which we all watched on television, and together with our children perceived it as something kind, good, and eternal — something truly important to convey to the masses. However, the world does not stand still, progress continues, and everything new that emerges should be reflected and realised, including in fairytales. I believe this is an absolutely correct approach. Today’s children are not the same as we were: they perceive reality and media space differently. Therefore, it is important to offer something new to them, something that can interest and captivate them," said Andrei Brovkin.
A participant of the presidential programme "Time of Heroes", Deputy Minister of Construction, Architecture, and Property Relations of the Novgorod region, holder of two Orders of Courage, Nikolai Sergienko, noted that the performance "Morozko" is a timely production that tells about the struggle between good and evil, and fosters diligence and patience.
"It is beneficial for the current generation to be told about the genuine values and traditions of the Russian people, primarily about human love, in a language that is close to them. Thanks to the fact that the production combines ballet, theatre, and other art forms, it conveys easily what is sometimes difficult to express in other ways," added Nikolai's wife, Olga Sergienko.
A participant of the presidential programme "Time of Heroes", holder of two Orders of Courage, advisor to the Deputy Director General for Human Resources in the field of patriotic education at the Rosatom State Atomiс Energy Corporation, Captain Pavel Yakushev, noted that today there is a lack of content that addresses important issues. He remarked that children are often left by themselves, engrossed in gadgets, computers, and TV: "In the performance, parents recall their youth and show that they once loved. Children begin to follow their example. Thanks to the plot of 'Morozko', we understand: we need to communicate more, spend time together with loved ones, so that our Russia becomes united. This year has been declared the Year of National Unity, therefore, regardless of where you are and who is with you, this time can be spent together and usefully, communicating and multiplying Russia's values."
Pavel Yakushev emphasised that he has been passing on to his children the cultural values instilled by his parents, and that without this, the history one can be proud of will be forgotten. He noted that his grandfathers, his father, and he himself fought, and expressed confidence that his son, raised in these traditions, will, if necessary, defend the Motherland.
The production features leading artists from the country's best theatres and stars of the Russian stage. The performance is based on the well-known Russian folk tale in a modern interpretation. While working on the script, the authors relied on the research of folklorist Vladimir Propp, according to which the tale develops from chaos through trials and the transformation of the heroes to harmony and a happy ending. "Morozko" combines opera, ballet, folk, and other genres, and the balance between immersion, multimedia elements, and live performance is built on a modern principle which is in demand with audiences.
Furthermore, before the showings of "Morozko", the National Centre RUSSIA, together with the Movement of the First, holds workshops. All comers can create a unique festive wreath, decorate a New Year bauble, or paint a candle with their own hands. After the performance, young visitors receive a sweet gift.
The performance is part of the "New Year Russia" project, which also includes the "Book of Fairytales" exposition, the "Winter Wizards" festival, workshops, and much more. The next showings will take place from 7 to 11 January, and the final one will be held on 14 January. To attend, you can register on the website russia.ru in the "Events" section.
The recording of the performance is available on social media and on the official website of the National Centre RUSSIA.
This unique project, implemented in the format of an interactive tour, invites children to embark on an unforgettable journey across the regions of the country.
The touching event took place as part of the nationwide "New Year Tree of Wishes" campaign.
