Ugolok dedushki Durova

The "Durov Animal Theatre," affectionately known as Grandpa Durov's Corner (Ugolok Dedushki Durova), is a unique and historic cultural institution located in Moscow. Founded in 1912 by the legendary circus performer, clown, and animal trainer Vladimir Durov, this theatre revolutionised the way animals were trained and presented to the public. Unlike traditional circuses of the time, Durov pioneered humane training methods based on positive reinforcement, animal psychology, and natural behaviour, completely avoiding the use of the whip. The complex is not just a performance space but a comprehensive animal center that includes a large and a small stage for theatrical shows, an animal museum, and a menagerie. Visitors to the theatre can witness engaging, narrative-driven performances where animals of various species, from domestic pets to exotic creatures like elephants and hippos, play specific roles alongside human actors. The building itself is steeped in history, retaining the whimsical, fairytale-like architectural charm of its early 20th-century origins. It remains a deeply beloved destination for families in Moscow, preserving the legacy of the Durov dynasty and their enduring philosophy of kindness towards animals.