The Maly Theatre has begun work on a new production inspired by the works of Austrian writer Stefan Zweig. The premiere of the play titled “The Carefree” will take place on the Chamber Stage on January 8, 2026.
- The theatre noted that the world-renowned writer, poet, and author of novellas and biographies Stefan Zweig was born on November 28, 1881, and next year will mark 145 years since this date.
- The production is based on three of the writer’s novellas: “The Sunset of a Heart,” “Twenty-Four Hours in the Life of a Woman,” and “Fear.” These stories are united by a common setting—a hotel where the characters seek to escape their ordinary reality but confront feelings of guilt over fleeting moments of happiness.
The production is being directed by Asya Knyazeva, who also adapted the script. The theatre has already completed work on the mock-up of the future stage set, and the company has begun rehearsals. The play features Maxim Khrustalev, Konstantin Yudaev, Alan Saltykov, Alexey Mishin, Alexander Naumov, Lidiya Milyuzina, Anastasia Dubrovskaya, Ksenia Lukyanchikova, and Anastasia Yermoshina.
Following the premiere, performances of “The Carefree” are scheduled for February 4, 12, and 17, as well as March 8 and 19, 2026.
Maly Theatre
The Maly Theatre is a historic drama theater in Moscow, founded in 1824 and one of the oldest and most renowned theaters in Russia. It earned the nickname “The House of Ostrovsky” for its deep association with the playwright Alexander Ostrovsky, many of whose plays premiered there. The theater has a long tradition of presenting classic Russian works and remains a leading institution for realistic acting.
Chamber Stage
I am unable to find specific historical or cultural information on a place called “Chamber Stage.” It may refer to a small, intimate performance space within a larger theater, but without a specific location or context, a detailed summary is not possible. To provide an accurate description, more specific details about its location or cultural significance would be needed.
Stefan Zweig
Stefan Zweig was a renowned Austrian writer and intellectual of the early 20th century, not a physical place. His former residence in Petrópolis, Brazil, where he lived in exile and died by suicide in 1942, is now a cultural centre and museum dedicated to his life and work. This site commemorates his final years and his profound literary legacy.
The Sunset of a Heart
I am unable to provide a summary for “The Sunset of a Heart,” as it does not appear to be a widely recognized geographical place, historical landmark, or established cultural site. It is likely a poetic or artistic title for a piece of music, literature, or a personal project. Without more specific context about its nature and history, I cannot generate a meaningful summary.
Twenty-Four Hours in the Life of a Woman
“Twenty-Four Hours in the Life of a Woman” is not a physical place or cultural site, but rather a famous 1927 novella by the Austrian author Stefan Zweig. The story explores a single, transformative day in the life of its protagonist, focusing on themes of passion, chance, and the hidden complexities of a seemingly conventional woman. It is a significant work of psychological literature from the early 20th century.
Fear
“Fear” is not a specific place or cultural site; it is a universal human emotion. Historically, it has been a central theme in folklore, literature, and art, often personified in myths or explored as a psychological concept. Cultural sites like haunted houses or horror-themed attractions are built specifically to evoke and explore this emotion in a controlled environment.
The Carefree
“The Carefree” is not a widely recognized historical or cultural site. It is likely a reference to the town of Carefree, Arizona, a community founded in the 1950s and known for its upscale, resort-style living and unique Southwestern architecture. The town’s name reflects its intended purpose as a peaceful and relaxed desert retreat.
Asya Knyazeva
I am unable to provide a summary for “Asya Knyazeva” as it does not refer to a known place or cultural site. The name appears to be that of a Russian model and actress, not a geographical location or a monument. Therefore, it does not have a history in the context of a cultural or historical site.
