Kholstomer: The History of a Horse at Theater 86 and Essence Theater
Dates: (4/3/2025 - 4/20/2025 )
Theater 86 and Essence Theater |
165 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024
New York,NY 10024
Essence Theatre and Theater 86 Present U.S. Premiere of “Kholstomer: The History of a Horse” – A Bold New Adaptation of Tolstoy’s Masterpiece.
Essence Theatre and Theater 86, in collaboration with the State Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan, proudly announce the U.S. premiere of “Kholstomer: The History of a Horse,” a stunning stage adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s iconic novella The Strider. Directed by internationally renowned Nabi Abdurakhmanov, this electrifying production will debut in New York on April 3, 2025, at Theater 86, located at The Center at West Park (165 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024). Performances run Thursdays–Saturdays at 8 PM, with matinees on Saturdays at 2 PM and Sundays at 3 PM.
Fresh from sold-out performances across Central Asia, St. Petersburg, Siberia, and the Middle East, “Kholstomer” brings Tolstoy’s timeless tale to life with visceral dramatic action, multicultural performances, dynamic choreography, and an original score by celebrated Uzbek composer Dmitry Yanov-Yanovsky. This adaptation explores universal themes—power, ownership, the banality of evil, and the relentless pursuit of freedom—offering a theatrical experience that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences.
The story of a legendary horse—outcast, betrayed, and seeking honor—transforms into a powerful commentary on societal injustice and the human condition, amplified by Abdurakhmanov’s visionary direction.
Critical Acclaim
Following successful workshop previews in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Jersey City, “Kholstomer” has earned rave reviews:
- Grigory Gurevich, Co-founder of the International Arts Museum MoRA: “I was genuinely thrilled by the performance, especially by its multifaceted interpretation!”
- Tom Marion, Associate Professor of Theatre at York College: “I sat like a child in a thrall of wonder but gripped by an ageless and brazen energy of life.”
- Regina Gottfried, Essence Theater Dramaturg: “This production captivates and breaks through the barriers that divide us, delivering Tolstoy’s message with stunning clarity.”
- L. Lebedina, Moscow theater critic: “A poem about running—running toward the freedom of the spirit. You’ve won over both audience and critics alike!”
Don’t miss this breathtaking production that promises to be a highlight of New York’s spring theater season.
For Press Inquiries
Email: essencetheatrestudio@gmeil.com , katyasaturday@gmail.com
Phone: 914-646-0423; 917-589-4552
Website: www.kholstomershow.com
About Essence Theatre
Essence Theatre is a New York-based company celebrated for its innovative, thought-provoking productions that explore the human experience. Through global collaborations, they create performances that transcend cultural boundaries.
About Theater 86
Theater 86 is a dynamic New York theater company dedicated to bold, groundbreaking works that challenge conventions. Featuring talent from around the world, they bring fresh perspectives to timeless narratives.
Cast and Creative team for Kholstomer: The History of a Horse at Theater 86 and Essence Theater
Cast
Obid Abdurakhmanov
Kholstomer
He was a leading actor of theatre and cinema of Uzbelistan. For 7 years, 2016-2023, was the Artistic Director the celebrated Youth Theater of Uzbekistan in Tashkent.
Currently working at the Theater - Studio ESSENCE, starring in many current productions of the theater's repertoire.
Deborah Gerofsky
Vezopurikha
Deborah has recently graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic arts with an AOS degree and continued learning her craft through their theatre company. Now making her debut, Deborah’s grateful to her friends, family, and teachers for their support.
Kamilla Abdurakhmanova
Brownie
Worked as a director and an actress of the Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan. Dance and Acting teacher. Currently working at the ESSENCE Theatre-Studio as an actress and playwright.
Anatolii Ishchenko
Darling / Officer
Anatolii graduated from The Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute in Moscow, Russia in 2018.
Worked in the Moscow Art Theater and Vakhtangov Theater, as well as Moscow Operetta State Academic Theatre.
Can Deniz Ezraim
Horse / Prince Serpuhovskoi
Deniz Erzaim is a multitalented artist from Turkey, acknowledged for his diverse skills as an actor, singer, and a dancer.
Upon graduating from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts, his love for the performing arts propelled him into a dynamic career. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, he developed a passion for puppetry, clowning, and physical theatre. He also directed and produced a puppet show on YouTube. Following the challenges presented by Covid-19, his path led him to New York, where he now is a proud member of the Broken Box Mime company and Theatre 86 theater company.
Isaac Aaron Echegoyen
Groom
Issac holds a Bachelor of Arts from Tiffin University. His previous credits include Shakespeare in Hollywood (Parkside Players) and A Sketch of New York. Issac can be found @issacechegoyen on Instagram.
Johnny Rayer
Vaska / Feofan
Johnny is a New York City based actor who came from Israel to fulfill his destiny. Born to Russian Jews who taught him to never give up - no matter what, and to chase the dream - because no one is going to do it for you. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
Alexandra Recknagel
Horse
Alexandra Recknagel is a Russian-American actress from Prague, Czechia. Love at first vocal warmup propelled her from an acting course at LAMDA to New York, where she recently finished her studies at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Her credits include regional theatre, Off-Broadway productions, and independent films.
Natasha Skutka
Horse
Natasha is thrilled to make her debut with Essence Theater. Like a moth to a flame, she loves working with independent theater’s across New York. She just recently closed the Master and Margarita with Theater 86. Further notable productions include; The Beaux’s Stratagem, Love’s Labour’s Lost, and Peter Pan at Stag & Lion Theater. You can also catch her in the feature film “Dark Game” streaming on Netflix and Apple TV.
Julia Sokol
Horse
Julia Sokol is a Ukrainian actress who graduated from the Academy of Arts in Kyiv, also studied at Ivanna Chubbak’s studio. She has been working in theater for over five years in New York City, performing in both adult and children’s productions. Julia is a leading actress at ESSENCE THEATER, where she takes on prominent roles in various performances. She is also a member of the BRAVE THEATER STUDIO , where she has participated in charity events such as “Whispering About Love”, shining as a true star on stage.
In addition to her stage work, Julia is a dedicated acting coach, teaching both children and adults the art of acting. She is also an experienced event host and entertainer, bringing her energy and charisma to various celebrations, making every event engaging and memorable.
Amir Zarkani
General
Amir, born and raised in Egypt, is a versatile performer with a background in singing, acting, musicianship, and dance. Originally earning a degree in engineering, Amir later pursued his passion for the arts, graduating with a musical theatre degree from AMDA. He is thrilled to bring his talents to this production and thanks the cast, crew, and audience for their support.
Stalina Guberchenko
Horse
Stalina Guberchenko is a passionate Ukrainian actress and a graduate of New York University. She pursued Method Acting at the Lee Strasberg Theater and Film Institute in Manhattan, New York. Рlayed a lead role in a short film "Just a Little Longer" shot in Baltimore, US, which is now traveling around film festivals.
Creative Team
Nabi Abdurakhmanov
Director
Nabi Abdurakhmanov led the Youth Theater of Uzbekistan as its Artistic Director for 26 years (from 1991 to 2016), with its main repertoire being in Russian. His participation in many international festivals, including in many cities in Russia, earned his theater the recognition of being the best Russian-speaking theater outside of Russia. It is no wonder he was awarded the State Prize of the Russian Federation for his contribution to Russian culture – Nabi Abdurakhmanov is a Knight of the Pushkin Medal.
Vassa Vasileva
Costume Designer
She has studied in The State Institute of Arts of Uzbekistan and till 2016 was a leading actress of the Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan. Also worked as Pedagogue of an acting skill and stage speech, Costume designer, Choreographer, Print and Video Designer and Coordinator of international projects and fesivals of the theatre.
Since 2016 lives in USA. She is a co-founder of the ESSENCE Theatre-Studio and an Artistic Director of its «TalentLand» Children’s Theatre. And starring in many current productions of the ESSENCE theater's repertoire.
The list of roles includes about 50 characters of various genres.
Dmitriy Yanov-Yanovsky
Composer
nown for blending Central Asian and Eastern European musical traditions. His works have been performed by Yo-Yo Ma, the Chicago Symphony, and the Kronos Quartet, among others. A former composer-in-residence at Harvard and Dartmouth, he is also a prolific film composer. His recent work, Qyrq Qyz (Forty Girls), premiered at Dartmouth and toured the U.S. In 2023, his composition Zij — Music of Constellations was premiered at UNESCO in Paris.
Igor Gulenko
Set Designer
A renowned production designer and artist, with a career spanning over four decades. He worked at "Uzbekfilm" on award-winning films, including Youth of the Genius and Orlando. Gulenko’s personal exhibitions have been held in Poland, Spain, Russia, and more, with his works displayed in museums and collections worldwide. He has designed sets and costumes for the Youth Theater of Uzbekistan, collaborating with director Nabi Abdurakhmanov on notable productions like "Parable of Love Given" and "Turandot, The Princess."
Kamilla Abdurakhmanova
Choreographer
She worked as a director and an actress of the Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan. Dance and Acting teacher. Currently working at the ESSENCE Theatre-Studio as an actress and playwright.
Timur Abdurakhmanov
IT Specialist
Since the inception of ESSENCE Theatre, our IT Specialist has been a vital part of our team. He provides comprehensive support in the IT domain, primarily working on our website. Additionally, he excels in sound and light design for performances and creates captivating video projections, enhancing the overall experience of our productions.
Katya Saturday
Art Producer
Moving to the US with family as a teen, Katya began her acting work at Academy for Performing Arts at UCVTS. While a senior in high school, produced a play, collaborating with many student writers. Katya received a conservatory degree from AMDA New York in 2021, focusing on acting and producing. After which, she began to study with Essence Theater as an actress and now stepped up to become a producer of “Kholstomer: The History of a Horse.”
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Theater 86 and Essence Theater Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Essence Theater and Theater 86 is at 165 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024, New York, NY.
Theater 86 and Essence Theater is at 165 W 86th St, New York, NY 10024, New York, NY.
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