On 26 May, the M I Rudomino All-Russian State Library for Foreign Literature (LFL) and the Russian State Art Library (RSAL) opened a two-part exhibition series to mark the 250th anniversary of the State Academic Bolshoi Theatre. The exhibition, prepared in collaboration with the Bolshoi Theatre Museum and collectors who are friends of the libraries, is a multimedia exhibition.
The multimedia exhibition “The Bolshoi. 20th Century” (26 May 26–31 December) immerses viewers in the theatre’s century-long history, with its constant creative explorations, resounding triumphs, and landmark performances. Unique multimedia materials reveal the stories of the outstanding artists who made the Bolshoi Theatre one of the main symbols of Russian culture. Visitors will be able to see them on stage and behind the scenes, hear their voices in archival recordings, and experience the spirit of the era through photographs of performances and rehearsals. The exhibition will reveal the calibre of their personalities and the creative legacy of such stage legends as Boris Pokrovsky, Alexandr Melik-Pashayev, Feodor Chaliapin, Galina Ulanova, and Yury Grigorovich. Their innovative ideas, talent, and hard work shaped the development of opera and ballet for decades to come. The digital content is complemented by rare visual materials from the collections of the Russian State Art Library and memorabilia provided by partners. The Library of Foreign Literature displays publications from the international press tracing the success of the Bolshoi Theatre’s tours abroad. The exhibition also features rare books about opera and ballet stars, renowned directors, and conductors of the Bolshoi Theatre.
The second part of the exhibition, “The Bolshoi Theatre in RSAL’s Rarities” (26 May–8 June), showcases treasures from the library’s collections, reflecting the importance of books in the creation of famous productions. The library typically remains behind the scenes, but it is here that directorial ideas are born, roles are developed, design solutions are sought, and much more. Rare books autographed by celebrated artists, theatre programmes, and costume and set designs will not only introduce the audience to the history of outstanding productions but also highlight the library’s role in the creative process of directors, conductors, actors, dancers, designers, and choreographers.
