April 3rd - April 20th
15 Performances Only!
Essence Theatre and Theater 86, in collaboration with the State Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan, present Kholstomer: The History of a Horse—a visually stunning, physically dynamic adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s Strider, directed by internationally acclaimed Nabi Abdurakhmanov, Honored Worker of Arts of Uzbekistan.
Fresh from a critically acclaimed run in Uzbekistan, this award-winning production arrives in NYC for the first time. With breathtaking physical storytelling, striking ensemble movement, and an original, soul-stirring score by Dmitriy Yanov-Yanovsky, Kholstomer is a theatrical experience unlike any other.
Told through the eyes of an outcast horse, the story follows a once-mighty stallion discarded by the world that once admired him. As he looks back on a life of love, betrayal, and survival, his journey reveals deep truths about human nature, injustice, and the unbreakable spirit that fights for dignity.
This is not a traditional play—it’s a bold, visceral spectacle that blends movement, music, and poetry into something truly unforgettable.
Performed in English. Limited run.
A Reading
"People are strangely blind. They are afraid of freedom, and only a few will dare to speak the truth."
Join us for a reading of Eugene Schwartz’s The Dragon, a razor-sharp satire on power, propaganda, and the illusions of freedom. Originally written in 1944, Schwartz conceived his play as a savage yet humorous attack on Nazi totalitarianism. The play was performed just three times before being withdrawn by Stalin's regime.
The reading will feature members of Theater 86’s ensemble alongside participants from our studio, with performances by Zack Calhoon, Derya Karatas, Alexander Langadakis, Sean McPhillips, Terrence Montgomery, Tom Schubert, Mark K. Simmons, Isabel Thornton, Tracey Toth, Elena Weintraub, and Di Zhu.
The play takes place in a small town held in thrall by a bloodthirsty, fire-breathing dragon, who terrorizes the people and demands regular sacrifices of the town’s young women. The townspeople believe that this is how things have always been, and how they always will be—Elsa, who is next in line to be sacrificed, included. They believe they need a strong claw to guide them, even if it is a violent, horrible dragon. After all, they argue, the dragon they know is better than the one they don’t, and it keeps them safe from those they view as threats—outsiders they believe are far more dangerous than dragons. But when an underdressed superhero, Lancelot, arrives in the town determined to slay the dragon, it seems as if liberation is at hand. Or is it?
Be part of the conversation as we share Schwartz's provocative play at Theater 86! A brief discussion will follow the reading. Seating is limited—reserve your spot now!
Wednesday, April 9th at 7PM
COMING SOON
One for all, and all for one.
Following his sold-out run of Master and Margarita, critically acclaimed director Aleksey Burago brings Alexandre Dumas’ legendary adventure to the stage in a visually stunning new production. Featuring paintings by master artist Valery Yershov, this adaptation fuses swashbuckling action, theatrical poetry, and breathtaking imagery into an unforgettable experience.
Dumas’ timeless masterpiece has captivated audiences for generations, inspiring countless films, operas, and adaptations. Now, experience it like never before—brought to life by an ensemble of daring performers, heart-pounding sword fights, and a visually striking stage design infused with Yershov’s artistic brilliance.
Set in the opulent yet treacherous world of King Louis XIII’s France, the story follows young d’Artagnan as he arrives in Paris seeking glory, only to find himself swept into a web of royal conspiracies, forbidden love, and battles that will decide the fate of a nation. Alongside the legendary Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, he must fight for justice against the cunning Cardinal Richelieu, the dangerous Milady de Winter, and forces that seek to destroy them.Step into 17th-century France, where loyalty is tested, swords clash, and the fate of a nation hangs in the balance. Join d’Artagnan and the legendary Musketeers as they battle Cardinal Richelieu, Milady de Winter, and the forces of deception in a world of intrigue, passion, and peril.