What do you really know about Russia? ‘Inland Visions’ follows host Sean Thomas across the country to shed stereotypes and meet those breaking down barriers. Discover the innovations changing Russia, the human passion & emotions, and a futuristic vision for the world's largest country. Prepare to be given a new perspective on what Russians are all about.
Synergy of spirit & traditions: Taste of North Ossetia-Alania culture
We head to the mountainous Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. Since the beginning of time, its beautiful people have been coming together to observe ancient traditions, in a place where everything has symbolic meaning. In this episode of Inland Visions, we discover the world of North Ossetian culture, walk through the ‘City of the Dead’, explore giant art installations hidden in the mountains, and enjoy the sounds of traditional music.
Golden Ticket: Bolshoi Theatre behind the scenes
The Bolshoi Theatre is an iconic symbol of Russia - it embodies grace, elegance and spectacles on a grandiose scale. Follow Inland Visions as we take you backstage at one of the world’s leading ballet and opera houses. It has been setting the global standard for almost 250 years - so who makes the magic happen today? We meet the Bolshoi’s prima ballerina Svetlana Zakharova, learn about the theatre’s mission and get an exclusive look at one the season’s big opera premieres with its star Agunda Kulaeva.
Snow whisperers: Your avalanche survival guide
Inland Visions heads to Rosa Khutor – an impressive ski resort near the sea and sun of Sochi. Riding season is in full swing, but the beautiful nature can be deceptive. Danger looms within the landscape: avalanches. Making the pistes safe is the job of a professional avalanche control squad. Every day and night they hit the slopes to analyze the snow and look for potential threats. You won’t notice their work, and that’s a sign you’re in good hands. So how do you control something as massive as an avalanche? How do you keep free-riders in check? And is it possible to survive under the snow if the worst happens? Meet Rosa Khutor’s avalanche control squad to find out.
‘Tis the season! Get to know Russia’s holiday traditions
It’s that magical time of year, when the holiday season in Russia is in full swing - and we are joining in the festivities. Even though some traditions resemble those of Western cultures, Christmas and New Year in Russia have their own twist. Inland Visions heads to Suzdal - a picturesque town about to turn 1,000 years old. With its snow-covered churches, traditional houses and true Christmas spirit, it’s the perfect setting to find out more about holiday traditions in Russia.
Dazzling & dangerous: the terrain of North Ossetia – Alania
Nature has given us some of the most mesmerizing wonders in the world. In the Republic of North Ossetia–Alania, you realize it more than anywhere else, with waterfalls, glaciers and gorges around every corner. In this edition, Inland Visions sets out to explore this wild, pristine beauty.
Native legacy: Exploring Kamchatka's ethnic melting pot
Kamchatka is one Russia's lesser populated regions, yet thousands of 'nationalities' live here. Among the indigenous groups are the Koryaks, Itelmens, Evens, Aleuts, and Chukchi. They live in total harmony with nature, seeking to preserve centuries-old traditions and culture. Learn how to cook fish without fire, curry deerskin and drive a dog sled – join Inland Visions in Kamchatka.