The message reads, in part:
“This anniversary marks a major and truly significant milestone for our renowned theatres, modern performance venues and amateur companies, as well as for the specialist academies and colleges. It is, above all, a celebration for the many creative professionals whose lives are bound together by a deep and abiding commitment to their art and vocation. It is especially fitting that the extensive programme of events organised to mark this anniversary places such strong emphasis on the union’s rich history, on the names and life stories of the outstanding cultural figures who were present at its foundation, who worked tirelessly to build its standing, and who played a vital role in safeguarding Russia’s unique historical and spiritual heritage while nurturing our distinguished theatre tradition.
It is heartening to see that today, the union’s members – from its most honoured veterans to its youngest practitioners and students – remain true to these remarkable traditions. They continue to carry out invaluable awareness-raising work and to bring to life a host of vibrant and inspiring projects.”