1930
In 1930, Renshichirō Kawakita participated in an international competition to design a Ukrainian National Theatre in Kharkov, which sought an avant-garde structure to seat 4,000 people. Despite tight deadlines and intense pressure, Kawakita meticulously prepared his submission, while also facilitating participation from other Japanese architects by distributing requirements and negotiating with the Soviet Embassy for collective delivery of their entries.
Kawakita’s design stood out among submissions, blending modern architectural style with innovative stage machinery and audience flow, aligning with cutting-edge European theatrical trends. His proposal subtly incorporated Soviet symbols, such as a silhouette of Lenin, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the sponsor's expectations. In 1931, Kawakita's entry was the only Japanese design selected, earning recognition for its originality and avant-garde approach. (ss)
