Modern Russian storytelling as a new research field: Strategies of representation of modern singers of tales

Abstract

In the 21st century, traditional storytelling was unexpectedly replaced by modern storytelling, which has become quite widespread in Russia, Serbia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and other countries. Modern singers of tales enter the public space with the help of various strategies of representation (traditional dress, features of performances, stories about themselves, etc.). On the basis of interviews and personal conversations, recorded in 2022–2023 with A. A. Matochkin, O. A. Skobelev, A. B. Muliin, L. N. Ryabova and D. R. Paramonov, it is possible to trace general trends and features, principles of training of a modern singer of tales, as well as to identify representational models (singer of tales as a professional, singer of tales as an artist, etc.). Among the common features are the identification of oneself with the storytelling lineage and the aspiration for the continuity of tradition, including family tradition. The training of modern singers of tales follows two main scenarios: through recordings or through book sources. It is noteworthy that in some cases storytelling is embedded in the professional sphere and becomes, if not the main, then one of the main activities in the life of modern singers of tales.