Russian drama theatre, while it gets less attention from foreign visitors than the other performing arts, is enriched in just as much tradition. Many classical Russian playwrights are as famous on world stages as they are at home, and many of Russia and Ukraine’s most historic theatrical buildings are used specifically for drama performances. For those less...
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Russian classical music has a proud history of celebrated composers, conductors and musicians. For aficionados of classical music and for those who will be visiting Russia and Ukraine’s historic concert venues, we’ve created a overview of this cherished art form. Included is a brief history of classical music in Russia, CDs, LPs and mp3s with the works...
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Traditional Ukrainian dance is one of Ukraine’s most recognized cultural exports. Known and respected worldwide, audiences are not only entertained with the energetic, often fast paced dance, but by also by elaborate, hand embroidered costume and accompanying folk music. Today, Ukrainian folk dance is mostly performed as choreographed stage performances,...
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Russian holidays (and Ukrainian holidays) have come from a wide variety origins. The oldest festivals have their roots in both pagan tradition and Eastern Orthodox religion. More recent holidays had their start during the period of the Soviet Union. The newest holidays (with the least amount of tradition) were created following the breakup of the USSR and the...
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The title Hero City was given to 13 cities of the former Soviet Union. (To be precise, there are 12 Hero Cities and 1 Hero-Fortress). Each of the Hero Cities was honored for it’s great heroism, sacrifice and role in the eventual defeat of Fascist invaders during the Great Patriotic War. Of the 13 Hero Cities, 7 are in present day Russia, 4 lie within Ukraine,...
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Ukrainian folk art, to this day, is an important part of Ukrainian culture and national identity. Many of Ukraine’s artisans still use traditional skills that have been passed down from generation to generation. Their handicrafts are widely recognized for intricate detail and design. Distinctive patterns consisting of of geometric forms and floral motifs are...
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Some forms of Russian handicraft are well known worldwide, while others are unfamiliar outside of Russia. Every one knows about the famous Matryoshka, or Russian Nesting Doll. Fewer people associate intricately woven lace, hand painted porcelain, wood work, or enamel jewelry with Russian Folk Art. Below we have descriptions and examples of some of...
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Ethnic Russian and Ukrainian clothing is a derivative of both practicality and creativity. Many of the garments associated with Russia and Ukraine were simply founded as the best possible means to stay warm. The fur and sheep skin coat (shuba and dublyonka), warm fur and wool hats (ushanka,papakha and budenovka), as well as the wool felt footwear (valenki), are all...
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Traveling by rail? Trains in Russia resources outline what to expect on your CIS rail journey. Introduction to Train Travel in Russia and the CIS How to Buy Train Tickets (online, help from a guide, on your own) Planning Your Trip on the Trans Siberian Railway Introduction to Trains in Russia There are 2 Types of Trains in Russia, Ukraine short distance...
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Trans Siberian Railway Travel. Info for planning a trip on the Trans Siberia Railroad, including tours, online ticket purchase, Trans Siberian Forum, facts, photos and video. Click here to open a larger interactive map Trans Siberian Line Although slight variations exist, here is a general itinerary of the Trans Siberian Railway. Moscow (Yaroslavsky Station)...
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