On Theatre Day, the Movement of the First launched the "Theatre Backstage" campaign at the National Centre RUSSIA

At the IV Congress of the Movement of the First at the National Centre RUSSIA, the traditional nationwide campaign "Theatre Backstage" was launched. Members of the Movement in more than 50 regions of Russia will visit the country’s renowned theatres and meet experts in the field. Thanks to this initiative, participants will gain deeper knowledge of theatre arts and explore potential career paths.

"Every year, as part of the flagship project 'School Classics,' members of the Movement across the country take part in the 'Theatre Backstage' campaign. It includes a series of creative events in various formats: students go on theatre and cultural site tours in their regions, participate in school and youth theatre tours, and engage with experienced theatre ensembles and cultural figures. This year, the campaign will reach thousands of participants in more than 50 regions nationwide. It is a true theatrical flash mob, offering an opportunity to explore the world of art even for those who have never taken part in the Movement of the First’s creative projects but dream of trying their hand at them," said Valery Morgunovsky, Deputy Chairman of the Movement’s Board. 

Photo: Press Office of the Movement of the First

The campaign is dedicated to Theatre Day and has been held for the third consecutive year. In 2024, more than 20,000 participants from 45 regions of Russia took part in the initiative. During the excursions, members of the Movement visited 550 venues, where over 500 acting workshops, more than 300 creative meetings with theatre actors, and around 200 performances took place.

This year, schoolchildren will once again immerse themselves in the world of stage art: they will visit theatres in their regions, find inspiration in performances, and meet professional actors. This experience will help them learn about the traditions of Russian theatre and make informed decisions about their future careers. During the campaign, participants of the Movement will also attend themed workshops and creative meetings. Cultural and theatre professionals — including directors, actors, makeup artists, costume designers, and other theatre specialists — will conduct classes and excursions for the participants. Through this, schoolchildren will discover the secrets of the craft and acquire valuable skills.

For example, in the Republic of North Ossetia, members of the Movement will take a guided tour of the Mariinsky Theatre branch. In the Belgorod region, they will visit the Belgorod State Puppet Theatre, where they will have the opportunity to attend a rehearsal of the performance "Little Traditions." Meanwhile, in the Chuvash Republic, participants will visit the Chuvash State Opera and Ballet Theatre. 

Photo: Press Office of the Movement of the First

The "Theatre Backstage" campaign is part of one of the Movement's flagship projects, "School Classics," implemented under the National Project "Youth and Children." The "School Classics" project aims to unlock the creative potential of young people and foster a sense of respect for the country's cultural legacy. Together with mentors, schoolchildren are reviving the tradition of theatre clubs by staging themed performances for important national dates, learning from professional experts at the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute, and participating in theatre festivals and nationwide initiatives.

The Movement of the First unites millions of young people and helps them grow. Through engaging projects, the Movement enables the younger generation to express themselves, develop their skills and abilities, and take pride in their country and its great history. Within the Movement, everyone can find a meaningful path, like-minded peers, and inspiring mentors.

The IV Congress of the Movement of the First is taking place from March 26 to 28 at the National Centre RUSSIA. This is the Movement's highest governing body, creating a collaborative space for key participants in the educational process — children, parents, and mentors. The IV Congress has brought together more than two thousand participants from 89 regions of Russia. The event vividly demonstrates the core ideas of the Movement of the First, where schoolchildren and students are both project initiators and transmitters of the country's traditional values.