First Russian Art Festival “World of Arts” to Be Held in Tashkent

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 22 to 26 September 2025, Tashkent will host the inaugural Russian Art Festival in Uzbekistan, “World of Arts.” Over the course of five days, residents and visitors of the capital will enjoy concerts, theater performances, film screenings, and creative encounters showcasing the diversity and richness of Russian culture.

The festival is aimed at fostering cultural dialogue and strengthening spiritual and interethnic ties between Russia and Uzbekistan. It is organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, the Center for Film Festivals and International Programs, the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan, the Government of the Republic of Mari El, and relevant agencies of the Republic of Mari El.

Russian Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova emphasized that strong humanitarian ties and long-standing cooperation serve as a solid foundation for bilateral relations. “The first ‘World of Arts’ Festival will become another cultural bridge between our countries and will be highly appreciated by audiences,” she noted.

The program promises to be vibrant. On 22 September, at the Alisher Navoi State Academic Bolshoi Theatre, the Mari State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre named after Eric Sapaev will present Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet Romeo and Juliet staged by Konstantin Ivanov. On September 23, the Mari El State Dance Ensemble will perform Dances of the Peoples of Russia, introducing audiences to Russian, Belarusian, Tatar, Mari, and Cossack folk traditions.

On 24 September, at the Alisher Navoi Cinema Palace (Panorama), a creative meeting with Russian filmmaker Karen Shakhnazarov will take place, accompanied by the screening of his new film Khitrivka. The Sign of Four. On September 25, the Organ Hall of the State Conservatory of Uzbekistan will host the literary and musical performance Mayakovsky and Yesenin, featuring Mossovet Theatre actors Leonid Semyonov and Ivan Pishchulin, as well as musicians Anastasia Bykova and Tamara Yegorova.

The festival will conclude on 26 September with the concert program Operatic Masterpieces at the Palace of International Forums “Uzbekistan.” The National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Alibek Kabdurakhmanov, will accompany performances by Mariinsky Theatre soloist Yulia Matochkina, Helikon-Opera soloist Alexandra Kovalevich, Bolshoi Theatre soloists Olga Seliverstova and Ilya Selivanov, and guest artist Denis Sedov, who regularly performs on leading world stages.

On the same evening, Gayane Umerova, Chair of the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan, will be presented with the Honorary Badge “For Contribution to the Development of Cultural Cooperation between Russia and Uzbekistan,” designed by sculptor Zurab Tsereteli.

Organizers expect that the “World of Arts” Festival will become a regular event, offering residents and guests of Uzbekistan the opportunity to discover the vivid and multifaceted art of Russia and its regions.