The lecture of the podcast "Dark Tales" will transport listeners into the world of ancient rites and rituals that were used in difficult times. This is an exciting immersion into the folk magic of last hope - with stories about unusual customs, scientific analysis, and live performances of authentic tales. The lecture of the podcast "Dark Tales" will be an unusual event for everyone interested in folklore, history, and secret practices of the past. The focus will be on folk anti-crisis magic - the rites that were turned to in moments of despair when elements and diseases threatened the existence of entire communities. These rituals can be called rites of last hope, reflecting people's belief in the power of words, actions, and collective unity. Audiences will learn why peasants built chapels overnight, what miracles were attributed to giant towels, and why plowing around the village was considered protection from misfortune. The narrative will not just be a retelling of myths, but a serious analysis - a professional folklorist and anthropologist will explain how these practices fit into the worldview system and what they meant for the people of their time. A special place will be given to the performance of an authentic tale, which will bring ancient images to life right in the hall. This will create a sense of presence and help feel the atmosphere of ancient village evenings when the storyteller united listeners around them. The evening will be hosted by Dmitry Lebedev - an author and podcaster whose voice is familiar to thousands of listeners, and researcher of Russian traditions Nadezhda Rychkova. Their dialogue will connect scientific rigor and artistic expressiveness, and the lecture itself will turn into an exciting journey along the border of myth and reality. Where to go in Moscow on weekends will be suggested by our website.