Opinions & Interviews

VITEBSK, 12 July (BelTA) – Belarus’ Deputy Premier, chairman of the Slavianski Bazaar organizing committee Vasily Zharko pointed to the increasing prestige of the festival on the international arena as he took part in a press conference prior to the opening ceremony of the forum on 12 July, BelTA has learned.

“The prestige of the festival on the international arena is constantly growing, which attests to the consistent state policy and recognition of Belarus’ significant contribution to the world culture. This year the forum welcomes participants from 41 countries (37 countries last year). For the first time competitors from Guinea, Egypt, the United Kingdom and Canada will take part in the international song contests. A singer from Uruguay takes part in one of the events of the festival,” Vasily Zharko said.

In his words, the festival has received letters of greetings from the presidents of Russia, Moldova, Czechia, UNESCO director general and representatives of other countries. The festival offers a plethora of activities and events. It has already become a tradition to celebrate friendship and talent by raising the flag of the festival in a solemn ceremony. The winner of the Junior Song Contest Vitebsk 2018 will take to the stage of the Summer Amphitheater during the opening concert. A session of the Board of Directors of the International Festivals and Events Association will take place on the sidelines of the festival.

The Vice Premier emphasized that the festival is taking place in the Year of Native Land. This theme will dominate all the events and projects of the forum. The biggest concerts will take place on the main venue of the festival – the Summer Amphitheater. The Theater Meetings, the Puppet Quarter and the Cinema Program projects are in full swing. “We are looking forward to enjoying this celebration of art, meeting with interesting people and getting a great number of impressions to take home,” Vasily Zharko emphasized.

Culture Minister Yuri Bondar noted that the format of the festival is updated every year. At the same time the festival has already developed certain traditions that add to the popularity of the festival. “Since the festival was established, it has welcomed nearly 100,000 performers from five continents and 72 countries,” Yuri Bondar said.

The 27th edition of the International Festival of Arts Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk is taking place from 12 to 16 July. Additional events are scheduled for 17-18 July.