Taking part in the event were Head of the Republic of Dagestan Sergei Melikov, Special Presidential Representative for International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoi, Deputy Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan Murad Huseynov, theatre employees, and students of the Gyunesh Choreographic School. Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova, Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky and Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova attended the event via videoconference.
The theatre was founded in the late 19th century as an amateur drama group formed by Azerbaijani intelligentsia in Derbent. In 1927, the troupe was officially recognised as a professional theatre. After the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945 it was closed until 1993. The renovation of the building began in 2023 and was carried out with support from Head of Dagestan Sergei Melikov and member of the Federation Council Suleiman Kerimov. The reconstruction included the adjustment of the theatre hall layout (272 seats), the renovation of other rooms, and the installation of modern stage light and sound equipment.
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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, colleagues, friends.
Today we mark World Theatre Day. I would like to congratulate everyone whose lives are connected with this wonderful art, including actors, directors, artists, other theatre staff and, of course, spectators, the true fans and admirers of the theatre and all theatrical genres.
For a country as vast as Russia, it is crucial that a rich and vibrant cultural life is not seen as an exclusive privilege of the capital cities, but is instead accessible to all our citizens. People must have the opportunity to experience outstanding productions by famous directors, reflect on performances, and enjoy the craft of acting where they live.
I am confident that the opening of the renovated Azerbaijani State Musical Drama Theatre in Derbent will be a memorable event in the cultural life of Dagestan, the country as a whole, and the neighbouring Caucasus countries.
Let me remind you that the theatre’s history dates back to the 1880s. It has always been served by people devoted to art. It is gratifying that now, after a large-scale renovation, the theatre has acquired its own, truly modern home.
In general, I would like to note that significant work is currently underway to renovate and technically upgrade many regional and municipal theatres. The relevant federal programmes are supported by initiatives from Russia’s regions, as well as by private investors and patrons.
We see a successful example of such combined efforts here in Derbent. In this regard, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the implementation of this project.
A caring attitude towards tradition holds particular significance in Dagestan, in Derbent, with its ancient history, and throughout multi-ethnic Dagestan, as I have already mentioned.
I would like to underscore: Russia’s uniqueness is shaped by the distinctiveness and unity of the peoples living within it, by respect for the individuality and distinctiveness of the multitude of cultures that mutually enrich and complement one another.
I am confident that in the renovated theatre, this noble mission will receive worthy continuation, fostering familiarity – in this case – among our citizens with the rich Azerbaijani culture.
We welcome guests from Baku to the theatre’s opening ceremony. In this regard, I would like to stress that relations between Russia and Azerbaijan are progressing on the solid foundation of a shared historical past, which includes a common cultural heritage.
It is worth noting that the Russian Drama Theatre in Baku, which opened over a century ago, remains very popular and successful to this day. In this context, I would like to thank the leadership of Azerbaijan, including the President of Azerbaijan, for supporting the theatre’s work. I would like to emphasise that these two theatres, in Baku and in Derbent, serve as bridges joining our cultures.
I wish the theatre’s team inspiration and great creative success, and all residents and guests of Derbent and Dagestan – health, good fortune, and prosperity.
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