Playbill

June 15, 1876

Paper, printing

56х44

On 5 July 1876, the Moscow Artistic Circle organised a large musical, dramatic, and entertainment evening at the summer premises of the former Hermitage Garden for the benefit of residents affected by the fire “at the Balkans” on 6 June. Despite the name, this did not refer to the Balkan Peninsula, but to an old district of Moscow located around the present-day Grokholsky and Bolshoy Balkansky lanes. The Balkans Pond was situated there, and the surrounding modest neighbourhood was known for its inexpensive housing. The great fire of 1876 became a notable event in the history of the area; subsequent changes to the local street plan and the filling in of the pond were later associated with its aftermath. To attract the public, the poster advertised an extensive programme featuring a French singer, two orchestras, operetta and dramatic numbers, a ballet, and a large fireworks display.

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