Overview
- A presentation at Moscow’s National Centre "Russia" with Culture Minister Olga Lyubimova and Vladimir Mashkov opened a yearlong program for the Union of Theatrical Figures’ 150th anniversary.
- A state ceremony conferred cultural honors, and organizers said awarding distinctions is intended to become a standing feature of the observance.
- President Vladimir Putin’s congratulatory message, read by Sergei Kiriyenko at the ceremony, thanked performers supporting troops and recalled artists’ contributions during World War II.
- Lyubimova publicly congratulated cultural workers, emphasizing the day’s role in uniting professionals across theater, cinema, circus, music and popular performance.
- The Union announced an annual charity tied to the holiday, directing proceeds from performances to a fund supporting active, emerging and retired artists.