In today’s blog, guest blogger and MATS Summer Intensive Alumna, Marcy Thornsberry, describes her experience with Russian theatre and how studying at MATS informed her career as a professional theatre artist.
The summer before my senior year of college, I participated in the Moscow Art Theatre School Summer Intensive. My trip to Russia was the first time I had ever been abroad, and I loved it! As a theatre artist, I gained vital experience both from the classes I took and from the plays we saw while in Moscow.
We were lucky to see a production almost every night. Although I do not speak the Russian language I was still able to understand the majority of the plays we attended. The language barrier encouraged me to observe the characters closely in order to better understand the story, and as a result of the talent and dedication of the performers, I clearly understood the intentions and relationships performed. I feel as though experiencing the Russian repertory theatre system, as well as working with and watching artists that are closely connected with Chekhov and Stanislavski, provided me with an experience that I could not have received in America.
I still vividly remember sitting in the audience seeing Butusov’s production of The Seagull, one of the most beautiful productions I have ever seen in my life. Krymov was another of my favorite directors. His productions were all enthralling, visually dynamic, and the performances were always excellent to watch as an acting student. I was also fortunate enough to visit the homes of Chekhov and Stanislavski.
