Theatrical Kazan during the World War II.

It seemed that the World War II, which brought death and devastation, was supposed to freeze the entire cultural life of the country. But no. Not only did it not stop, but it became more saturated, only changing its color to a more severe, harsh color. These moods also affected the theatrical life of Kazan. All the resources of its theaters were devoted to the national affair – the affair of the struggle for victory over fascism. The forms of life of theaters during the war expressed the civic position of the actors and were diverse. Concert groups, which included the Kazan Drama and Opera Theaters, as well as the Philharmonic, went to the front line. Mobile artistic groups gave concerts at recruiting stations, factories, and hospitals to boost morale. Charity events and lotteries were held both to raise funds for defense needs and to raise the general optimism of home front workers and rural residents. Moreover, the theaters continued their stage activities, including performances in their repertoire, the main motives of which were patriotism, humanism and friendship of peoples.