Introduction

Alexander Pushkin’s literary classic is transformed into one of the most extraordinary nights at the theatre in this arresting, sumptuous and timeless Russian show.

Rimas Tuminas does not aim at a full scenic adaptation of Pushkin’s novel in verse. For his main theme he chooses a story of Tatyana’s love for Onegin. Tatyana is in love with hot-blooded narcissist Onegin. But when he cruelly turns her down, his decision blights his life, leaving him disillusioned and bitterly regretful. Vakhtangov’s lush dramatisation collapses time, moving fluently between past and present, reality and dream, intimacy and grandeur. Set in a mirrored dance studio, the story is layered with poetic stage imagery, exuberant choreography, mischievous humour and moments of gut-wrenching intensity.

Spectators shoudn’t be surprised that there are two Onegins on stage: the mature one recalling the events and the younger one participating in them. There are two Lenskys as well: the very young one as he was during the events, and an imaginary white-haired companion of Onegin, the one whom Lensky could have become if he had not been killed in a duel.

Rimas Tuminas directs a magnificent ensemble of 45, giving the action a radical edge while remaining true to Pushkin’s treasured novel.

The ‘Eugene Onegin’ by the Vakhtangov Theatre was last seen in China in 2019 with the great triumph.