Opera and Revolution: «Ruslan and Lyudmila» at the Mariinsky Theatre in November 1917

Abstract

The article is devoted to the play «Ruslan and Lyudmila», shown on the stage of the Mariinsky Theatre on November 27, 1917. The performance was timed to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the first production and was distinguished by its outstanding artistic significance. However, in the late autumn of 1917, Glinka's fairy-tale opera became deeply involved in the political context. The revolutionary era powerfully asserted itself in the auditorium, on stage, and behind the scenes.

Keywords

M. I. Glinka, “Ruslan and Lyudmila”, Mariinsky Theatre, A. I. Siloti, M. M. Fokine, F. I. Chaliapin.