Mariinsky Orchestra concert marks launch of Russian Seasons in Bahrain at National Theatre
TDT | Manama
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The Russian Seasons in Bahrain, which coincides with the 35th anniversary of Bahrain-Russia diplomatic relations, officially commenced with a concert by the Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra at the Bahrain National Theatre. The event was attended by His Excellency Dr. Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, H.E. Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), and H.E. Olga Lyubimova, Russian Minister of Culture.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed emphasised that this cultural initiative reflects the historic cooperation between Bahrain and Russia.
He explained that it builds on last November’s milestone event, Bahrain’s Cultural Days in Moscow, which showcased Bahrain’s rich history, culture, and achievements to the Russian audience.
Initiatives
He underscored the importance of such initiatives in celebrating the deep historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the two nations, highlighting Bahrain’s commitment to preserving this legacy through cultural exchange projects.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed emphasised that the Russian Seasons in Bahrain deepen cultural exchange, strengthen bilateral ties, and enrich Bahrain’s cultural scene.
He stressed the role of culture in fostering mutual understanding and highlighted the Authority’s commitment to establishing Bahrain as a global centre for culture and the arts.
Minister Lyubimova emphasised the potential of the collaboration, which aims to provide Bahrain’s residents with unforgettable experiences throughout the year, highlighting the finest examples of Russian art.
The launch event featured a performance by the Mariinsky Orchestra, led by Artistic and General Director Valery Gergiev.
The programme included a selection of iconic Russian and European compositions.
The Mariinsky Orchestra, one of Russia’s oldest ensembles, has a history spanning over two centuries, originating from the St. Petersburg Imperial Opera Orchestra.
Cultural events
The Russian Seasons in Bahrain will continue throughout 2025 with a diverse array of cultural events. In February, The Magic of Animation, presented by SMF Studio, will take place on February 19-20, offering screenings, workshops, and lectures.
On February 24, the Bahrain National Theatre will host the State Academic Honored Dance Ensemble of Daghestan, Lezginka.
In November, two major performances will captivate audiences.
The globally renowned ballet The Nutcracker will grace the stage of the Bahrain National Theatre, while the Ossipov National Academic Folk Instruments Orchestra of Russia will perform at the Cultural Hall, accompanied by a Bahraini folk band.
MoU
The Russian Seasons are organised by the Russian Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the BACA, as part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in May 2024 during His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s visit to Russia.
This partnership also brought Bahrain’s Cultural Days in Moscow in November 2024, which included the inauguration of the Treasures of Bahrain: The Art of Gold Crafting Through the Ages exhibition at the State Historical Museum.
This exhibition, running until February 2025, showcases the evolution of Bahraini goldsmithing, tracing its journey from the Tylos period over 2000 years ago through the Islamic era and into the modern age.
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