Youth Theater Presents 'The Elder Son' in New Interpretation

On January 30, on the stage of the Theater of Young Spectators (TYuZ), the audience will see the premiere of the play «The Elder Son» based on the play by Alexander Vampilov. The production was directed by the chief director of TYuZ, Susanna Tsiryuk, who interprets the plot as a story about how a cruel deception can become the only way to gain genuine closeness.

At the core of the director«s concept lies a paradox. Tsiryuk sees in the play a system of fundamental contradictions that drive the action. In her opinion, feelings of family, love, and trust are born here not despite the lie, but through its painful and absurd prism. The director aims to both make the audience laugh and move them, preserving Vampilov»s signature balance between lightness and pain.

Set designer Alexei Tarasov and costume designer Tatyana Koroleva will create on stage a contrast between dull, blurred everyday life and bright flashes of emotion — moments of revelation and tenderness. Despite the size of the large stage, they plan to organize an intimate space.

This play is not an attempt to repeat the famous film adaptation. Tsiryuk explores human vulnerability as a manifestation of strength and a conscious choice in a world of universal loneliness. Written more than 50 years ago, Vampilov«s play in this interpretation speaks to the modern thirst for authenticity, even if achieved through deception. As the director herself says: »The main thing in this play is what happens between people!« This thesis has become a guide for the entire creative team.

The play is recommended for viewers aged 16 and older.