In the letter, it is emphasized that rectors have traditionally been chosen by the "entire MHAT community," based on the principles of continuity. The authors of the appeal believe that the appointment of Bogomolov "categorically violates the traditions of continuity" that have been established since the founding of the Moscow Art Theatre School. In their view, continuity is not only about management but also about the "careful transmission of the ethical principles of Russian psychological theater."
The letter also notes that all previous leaders, such as Oleg Efremov, Oleg Tabakov, Anatoly Smelyansky, and Igor Zolotovitsky, were "rooted MHAT members," which contributed to the preservation of the unique spiritual space and traditions of the educational institution. "A successor can only be someone who was educated by MHAT teachers within the walls of the school," the appeal states.
The authors emphasize that the tradition of open selection of the rector is an important part of the school's legacy, founded by Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko. They warn that violating this practice could lead to a "break in continuity, decline, and oblivion" of the institution's history.
In the letter, the graduates expressed hope that the Minister of Culture would take the troupe's opinion into account and consider other candidates for the position of rector, whose destinies and creative paths are connected with the Moscow Art Theatre School and align with the ethical principles of its founders.
RBC sent a request to the press service of the Ministry of Culture, inquiring whether the appointment would be reconsidered and whether the possibility of voting on the candidacy was being considered.
Additionally, RBC reached out for comments from Konstantin Bogomolov and the press service of the Moscow Art Theatre School.
On January 23, Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova announced the appointment of Konstantin Bogomolov as the acting rector of the Moscow Art Theatre School. This decision was made following the death of Igor Zolotovitsky, who held this position for the past ten years.
Bogomolov himself thanked the Moscow authorities for their support of theatrical art and confirmed that he would continue to lead the Theater on Malaya Bronnaya.
