Speaking Practice: Entertainment & Theatre Interview
🎭 Take an Interview — Modern Entertainment: Cinema vs Theatre
An interviewer will ask you a series of questions about current entertainment trends, famous Russian theatres, cinema psychology and your personal preferences. Answer each question as fully as possible. You will have 45 seconds to speak per question. No specific preparation time — just click "Start Timer" and begin responding immediately.
You have agreed to participate in a short online interview about entertainment habits, cultural preferences, and the role of cinema and theatre in modern life. The researcher will ask you four questions.
Interviewer: Thank you for taking the time. I'm researching current trends in leisure and performing arts. [2-second pause] First of all, what kind of entertainment — cinema or theatre — is more popular now in your opinion, and what might be the underlying reasons?
🇷🇺 Модельный ответ: Нельзя отрицать, что сегодня кино получает гораздо более широкое распространение, чем театр. Голливудские блокбастеры и потоковые сервисы создали культуру, движимую блокбастерами. Кино предлагает захватывающий кинематографический опыт за относительно небольшие деньги и время, тогда как театральные постановки часто требуют большего интеллектуального погружения. Основная причина — это доступность и мгновенное удовлетворение. К тому же кинотеатры удовлетворяют короткую концентрацию внимания современного зрителя. Поэтому кино сейчас преимущественно популярнее.
There is no denying that cinema has gained far more widespread traction than theatre nowadays. Hollywood blockbusters and streaming platforms have fostered a blockbuster-driven culture. Cinema provides an immersive cinematic experience at a relatively low cost and time investment, whereas theatrical performances often demand deeper intellectual engagement. This trend can be largely attributed to accessibility and instant gratification. Moreover, cinemas cater to fleeting attention spans of the modern audience. Consequently, cinema is predominantly more popular.
Interviewer: Thank you. Moving on, could you name a famous Russian theatre that you know? Why is it renowned and what makes it special on the world stage?
🇷🇺 Модельный ответ: Без сомнения, один из самых узнаваемых — это Московский Художественный театр (МХТ) имени Чехова, который часто считают воплощением драматического искусства. Он является маяком театральных традиций и родиной системы Станиславского. Что его отличает — это новаторское сценическое мастерство и психологическая глубина, которые раздвинули границы реализма. МХТ получил международное признание и оставил непреходящее наследие, повлияв на мировой театр. Это truly выдающаяся компания.
Without a doubt, one of the most iconic is the Moscow Art Theatre (MAT) named after Chekhov, often regarded as an epitome of dramatic art. It is a beacon of theatrical tradition and the birthplace of the Stanislavski system. What sets it apart is its groundbreaking stagecraft and psychological depth, which pushed the boundaries of realism. The Moscow Art Theatre has garnered international acclaim and left an enduring legacy, influencing theatre worldwide. It is a truly eminent theatre company.
Interviewer: Interesting. Now, in your view, why do people generally like going to the cinema? What psychological or social factors contribute to this enduring appeal?
🇷🇺 Модельный ответ: Одна из главных причин — это коллективный эскапизм и возможность совместного эмоционального катарсиса. Люди хотят выйти за рамки повседневной рутины и погрузиться в историю на огромном экране. Кинотеатры предлагают современнейшие аудиовизуальные эффекты и осязаемую грандиозность, которую невозможно повторить дома. Также поход в кино — это механизм социальной связи и ощущение ритуала — встреча с друзьями, попкорн и обсуждение фильма. Именно сочетание технического совершенства и общей атмосферы создает непреходящую привлекательность.
One compelling reason is collective escapism and the possibility of shared emotional catharsis. People seek to transcend everyday routine and become immersed in a story on the big screen. Cinemas provide state-of-the-art audiovisual effects and tactile grandeur that cannot be replicated at home. Moreover, going to the movies acts as a social bonding mechanism and a sense of ritual — meeting friends, eating popcorn, and discussing the film afterward. It is precisely this fusion of technical excellence and communal atmosphere that fosters a unique appeal.
Interviewer: Final question: what is your favourite theatre or cinema, and why? Please describe what makes that particular venue outstanding for you personally.
🇷🇺 Модельный ответ: Моим любимым местом является старый кинотеатр «Художественный» в Москве, который является настоящей архитектурной жемчужиной. Он вызывает неповторимую атмосферу и дарит глубокий эмоциональный отклик благодаря историческому интерьеру. Также я очень люблю Театр имени Вахтангова — его камерная обстановка и репертуар, заставляющий задуматься, оставляют неизгладимое впечатление. Для меня особенно важно, что эти места имеют ностальгическую ценность и вызывают трепет. Каждый визит становится событием.
My personal favourite is the historic cinema "Khudozhestvenny" in Moscow, which is an architectural gem. It evokes an unparalleled ambiance and delivers visceral emotional resonance thanks to its vintage interior. I am also very fond of the Vakhtangov Theatre — its intimate setting and thought-provoking repertoire leave an indelible impression. What captivates me is that both venues hold a nostalgic value and create an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Not only do they offer artistic excellence, but they also turn every visit into a memorable ritual.
💡 Interview simulation — press Start Timer, give your answer spontaneously. Use advanced vocabulary and natural discourse markers. Timer counts down from 45 seconds.
3. Independent speaking_1
Using words from the text and lecture in exercise 1, prepare answers to the following questions:
a. Do you agree or disagree that the advantages of watching a newly-released blockbuster outweigh their disadvantages? Use specific reasons and examples to support your response.
Get Ready: 00:15
b. How will cinematograph develop over time? What is your opinion on this issue? Explain your reasoning with examples.
Get Ready: 00:45
Use one of the following speaking-1 templates:
Basic Template:
Main Point (choose one):
- "I support the view that…"
- "I believe it is preferable to…"
- "I find it a great/poor idea to…"
Transition (optional):
- "I hold this opinion for several reasons."
First Reason:
- "To begin with…" + "For instance…" (followed by a personal example).
Second Reason:
- "Additionally…" + "To elaborate…" (and include more details).
Advanced Template:
Personally, I firmly believe [MAIN POINT].
This is mainly due to [REASON 1].
By this, I mean [expand on the reason].
Furthermore, [REASON 2].
For example, [expand on the reason or provide an illustrative example].
3. Integrated Speaking_2
Active vocab
Step1. Read the following announcement:
Read: 1:00
Campus Announcement
The university administration is pleased to announce the opening of a new campus cinema in the student center building starting next month.
The cinema will operate daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Screenings of classic films will be available to students and staff free of charge.
Additionally, newly released movies will be shown for a small admission fee.
The administration hopes that the cinema will enrich student life by offering a convenient entertainment option directly on campus.
—Office of Academic Affairs
Step 2. Listen to the audio file below. During the real exam you will hear the audio only once. But now you can listen to it as many times s you want.
To be honest, I don't think the new campus cinema is a good idea. First of all, I’m worried about the noise. The cinema will be located near several dormitories, and loud crowds in the evening might make it hard to focus on studying or even to relax. Secondly, I don’t see why the university needs to build a cinema at all. There are already plenty of movie theaters in town, just a short bus ride away. It seems unnecessary to spend university resources on something that already exists off-campus. I'd prefer if the money went to more academic facilities instead.
Step 3. Prepare and record (in a messenger) an answer to the following question.
Preparation time - 30 seconds, speaking time - 60 seconds.
The woman expresses her opinion of the university’s announcement. State her opinion and the reasons she gives for holding that opinion
- "There are two reasons why the woman supports/objects to this ...."
- "The woman has negative feelings about this decision." (for mixed-opinion scenarios).
First Reason:
- "To start with, she states that…"
Second Reason:
- "In addition, she points out that…"
Advanced Template:
The announcement/article discusses [the proposed change].
This is partly due to [reason 1], as well as [reason 2].
The woman promptly voices her support/objection to this change.
Initially, she claims that [details], elaborating further that [additional details].
Moreover, she seems to believe that [details]. From her perspective, [more detailed reasoning].
Integrated speaking_3
Step1. Read the text
Reading time: 45 seconds
Read: 00:45
Advances in Cinematic Technology
Recent developments in cinematic technology have dramatically expanded the possibilities for filmmakers. Technologies such as 3D imaging, IMAX projection, and virtual cinematography allow for more immersive, visually striking experiences than traditional filming methods.
3D imaging gives depth to the picture, making objects appear to extend toward the audience. IMAX technology enhances the size, clarity, and sound of a film, intensifying the viewing experience.
Virtual cinematography enables filmmakers to create fully digital environments that replace or supplement physical sets, giving directors greater creative freedom and control over their storytelling.
Step 2. Listen to the lecture
Note: Take notes of illustrations of the ideas given in the reading!
Step 3. Prepare and record your answer (send in a messenger)