Moscow

State Jewish Theatre (GOSET)

1925-1949

The Moscow State Jewish Theatre (prior to 1925: Moscow State Jewish Chamber Theatre) was established in 1920, evolving from the Jewish Theatre Workshop in Saint Petersburg, which had relocated to Moscow that year. The theatre was founded and initially directed by Alexey Granovsky. In 1929, Solomon Mikhoels took over as artistic director. Among the artists who worked at the theatre were Nathan Altman, Alexander Tyshler, Isaac Rabinovich, and Robert Falk. Marc Chagall also collaborated with GOSET, creating costumes and scenery designs for "An Evening of Sholom Aleichem" (1921) and "The Sorceress" (1922). He also designed the theatre's lobby and auditorium. Chagall served not merely as a painter, but as a gateway to Jewish artistic tradition. GOSET's troupe featured legendary performers such as Solomon Mikhoels, Benjamin Zuskin, Boris Kreychman, and Sarra Rothbaum. The repertoire centered on works by Jewish writers, allowing the actors to preserve and reinterpret traditions, creative spirit, and daily life. The Bakhrushin Theatre Museum online collection includes photographs, archival documents (articles, notes, press clippings), original costume and set designs by Robert Falk, Alexander Tyshler, Isaak Rabinovich and other artists. We hold items related to early works depicting shtetl life ("The Sorceress", 1922), as well as tragic explorations of Jewish identity ("Night at the Old Marketplace", 1925), and classic adaptations ("Tevye the Dairyman", 1938). There are also exhibits showcasing Solomon Mikhoels' landmark role in "King Lear" (1935). These materials offer immersive access to the Jewish Theatre’s artistic legacy.