Timofej Kuljabin, who has been living in exile since the onset of the Ukraine war, is now directing a production of Mikhail Bulgakov's iconic novel 'Master and Margarita' at Schauspiel Frankfurt. Having read the book at the age of twelve, Kuljabin highlights the profound connection many Russians have with the text, as its vivid descriptions of Moscow offer a unique navigational guide to the city.

Kuljabin reminisces about the organized tours that once drew Bulgakov enthusiasts to significant locations related to the author in Moscow. The environment he was immersed in reflects the powerful influence that Bulgakov's work has had on Russian culture. The director, born in 1984 in Ischewsk, pursued theater studies and has accumulated significant experience in the theater world, particularly as the Artistic Director of the 'Red Torch' theater in Novosibirsk from 2014 to 2022.

His current endeavor to bring 'Master and Margarita' to the stage comes at a time of cultural divide, as he navigates the challenges of producing Russian classics in a foreign land amidst ongoing conflict. This production not only represents a personal journey for Kuljabin but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Russian literature and the complexities of identity and exile in these turbulent times.