Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia

In the early 1990s, Natasha Lance Rogoff, a young American television producer, brought Sesame Street to post-communist Russia. Despite cultural clashes and challenges, the show became a major hit, airing for over a decade. Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia explores the behind-the-scenes action and work that goes into creating a beloved children's television show, while also exploring Russia's people, culture, and relationship with the West.

Format: Hardback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 17 December 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

In the early 1990s, Russia emerged from the grip of communism, ushering in a period of economic and cultural transformation. The timing seemed auspicious to introduce Sesame Street, a beloved children's television program, to millions of Russian children, fostering Western liberal values, capitalism, and concepts such as diversity and inclusion. However, no one could have foreseen the immense challenges that lay ahead.

In her captivating book, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, Natasha Lance Rogoff vividly recounts the arduous journey of bringing this iconic show to post-communist Russia. Rogoff, a young American television producer with fluency in Russian, assumed the role of leading a diverse team of American and Russian artists, producers, educators, writers, and puppeteers. Over a span of four years, they toiled tirelessly to create the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street. Despite the backdrop of bombings and the assassination of her Russian broadcast partners, Rogoff remained steadfast in her mission to bring humor, entertainment, and democracy to Russian children.

Throughout the production, Rogoff keenly observed the intricate interplay between cultural clashes and the creative process. She delved into the challenges of adapting the educational framework, scriptwriting, and the introduction of new Slavic Muppets, who often found themselves at odds with five centuries of Russian thought. The book sheds light on the intricate negotiations and compromises that were necessary to ensure that Russian culture was respected and incorporated into the show.

Despite the obstacles, Muppets in Moscow achieved remarkable success, airing for over a decade and becoming a beloved institution in Russian society. The show not only entertained children but also played a significant role in promoting literacy, social values, and cultural exchange. It served as a bridge between different generations and cultures, fostering understanding and tolerance.

Through her captivating storytelling, Rogoff provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of a beloved children's television show. She sheds light on the tireless efforts of the production team, the challenges they faced, and the triumphs they achieved. Muppets in Moscow is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the enduring impact of children's programming on shaping the lives of young audiences.

Weight: 517g
Dimension: 228 x 162 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538161289