Maxim Yurievich, one of the goals of the festival is to support the best traditions of the Russian circus school. It’s true?
Maxim Nikulin: This opens wide possibilities for creative children aged eight to 18. Surely some of them will then continue their studies in circus schools, will become professional artists. There are more than three thousand amateur circus groups in Russia. The thematic changes in the Federal Children’s Centers will help, I hope, to identify the best ones.
Who are the participants of the festival?
Maxim Nikulin: The festival takes place in several children’s health camps. 50 beginner jugglers, acrobats, gymnasts, illusionists came to “Eaglet”… The guys took theoretical and practical classes. Completion of the change will take place in August at the All-Russian Center “Ocean” in Vladivostok. At the final stage, a thousand talented children from Russia, Belarus, Mongolia, China and other countries will take part in the competition. At the end of each thematic tour, a creative review will be organized with a demonstration of unique numbers and covers.
Why did you decide to organize such a festival?
Maxim Nikulin: It’s a living and healthy idea. The first encounter with the art of the circus occurs in childhood. The little man is not taken to the Bolshoi Theater, but to the circus. We tried last year. Committed, realized, it turned out. On the right road we go to the circus. This road should only lead to good things. Given the positive feedback, seeing that the festival is useful and necessary for children, it was decided to continue the program, where children can show themselves, discover and develop their abilities, and receive professional training from mentors.
Last year you received 300 applications, this year – already two thousand.
Maxim Nikulin: The first team started in March in Orlyonok with circus teachers. Children from Belarus will also come to Vladivostok. “Road to the Circus” gives talented kids a ticket. We are expanding.
Previously, the circus was treated with irony.
Maxim Nikulin: Dad recalled that in the forties there were no changing rooms in the circus. Sometimes they even said, “Why are you throwing a circus here for us?” Now there is support. We hope the festival will increase interest in the circus. After all, it is very important for children. We offer you the opportunity to make your dream come true.
What genres are the most in demand right now?
Maxim Nikulin: It’s hard to say. I have been in the circus for thirty years. At one time there were many hoops, now there are few. There are gender boundaries. Cats are allowed, dogs are not. Not all rooms have money… On an artistic level, the relationship to life has changed. If you’ve ever put something in your head, you definitely will. Before, nothing was impossible. Now that is far from the case. Of course, children from dynasties know more than others.
Which of the teachers went on the first shift?
Maxim Nikulin: It is gratifying that they are teachers of large circus groups.
Where will you go?
Maxim Nikulin: I will train everywhere. It is important for me to visit each city. I really enjoyed these trips last year.
There’s a new circus in Minsk, it’s luxurious. It hosted a performance dedicated to Yuri Nikulin’s centenary with great success.
Is the circus only for children?
Maxim Nikulin: My first cousin, a film producer, went to the circus and said that for many years, for the first time, he remembered the taste of his tears. I was told how the two were married on December 31, 1942 and left for the front on January 1. Then every year, according to the tradition of the first of January, they went to the circus.
The Belarusians are also participating?
Maxim Nikulin: Of course they were last year and will definitely be this year.
I wonder how Yuri Vladimirovich Nikulin would rate all this?
Maxim Nikulin: Positively.
Who are you friends with?
Maxim Nikulin: Almost with all circuses. We have close ties with Belarusian colleagues, with the Belarusian State Circus in Minsk. Our artists work there regularly. The Minsk Circus successfully hosted a program dedicated to the centenary of Yuri Nikulin. A new circus has been built in Minsk. Luxurious! I was at the opening. Huge hallways, high ceilings. As a business owner, I immediately think about how to maintain it, heat it, wash it, and light such a large arena. In general, Belarusians are very fond of the circus.
What is a circus for you personally?
Maxim Nikulin: Honesty.
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Maxim Yurievich Nikulin is the general director and artistic director of the Moscow Nikulin Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard. Born November 15, 1956. Graduated from the Faculty of Journalism of Moscow State University. At the age of 11, he starred in the film “The Diamond Arm”, in which his father played the main role. Maxim Nikulin has two sons and a daughter.
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