For 7th- and 8th-grade students of Secondary School No. 4, one of the most significant creative projects of the 2023–2024 academic year came to a close — “Developing a Technology for Overcoming the Risks of Adolescence: School Theatre Based on Role Experimentation”, carried out under the auspices of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Contemporary Childhood (MSUPE).

From January to May, the students took part in classes that can be conditionally divided into two courses: acting (with elements of psychological training) and multimedia.
The basics of the profession were introduced by theatre and film actor, teacher Alexey Nazarov. The sessions included training exercises aimed at developing effective communication in small and large groups, the ability to collaborate with peers, as well as memory, attention, and rhythm. The students also engaged in speech training and plastic improvisation. These exercises not only prepared them for the final performance but also equipped them with essential life skills: listening, understanding, clear speech, and the ability to build conflict-free relationships.
Animator Daniil Leonovich Kostevich introduced 7th graders to the fundamentals of animation. Students watched short films, studied techniques and materials, and then, in groups, created their own projects based on Letters on Kindness by Dmitry Likhachyov. Their work resulted in 12 animated films that reflected adolescents’ understanding of universal values: labor, mutual help, kindness, family, and friendship.
For 8th graders, journalist Ivan Dmitrievich Dubrov led sessions on video production and editing. Students learned about interviewing, lighting, framing, and angles, then practiced as interviewers, speakers, and camerapeople. Their resulting video films, featuring stories about WWII participants told by their descendants, were donated to the School Museum of Military Glory.
The multimedia component served career-guidance, corrective, and methodological purposes. By trying roles such as scriptwriter, director, animator, editor, or journalist, some students already discovered professional aspirations. For shy participants, creating animations and videos provided an alternative way to express themselves, develop communication skills, and feel valued in the group.
Costumed tour. While researching relatives’ wartime experiences, 8th graders created the guided tour “Dedicated to Soldiers of Mercy,” centered on the symbolic figure of a young nurse, Zoya. Visitors were immersed in the atmosphere of November–December 1941, learning about wartime medical care, the importance of sanitary inspections, and civilian contributions to doctors and the wounded.

The highlight of the season was the students’ theatrical productions.
The 8th graders staged “Thank You, Our Loved Ones!” — based on true wartime stories from their families, along with poems and songs of the period. The performance was both modern and deeply emotional, moving the audience to tears. Teachers and parents praised the acting and directing.
The 7th graders performed “Real Classics,” exploring child-rearing through Chekhov, Andreev, Zoshchenko, and Platonov. They brought to life vivid characters — from comical to tragic — earning heartfelt appreciation from the audience for their talent, preparation, and teamwork.
For many participants, this was their first time on stage. Some overcame shyness, others discovered hidden talents, and all experienced the joy of collaboration. The project fostered new friendships and a more tolerant, supportive atmosphere among students.

Source — Secondary School No. 4