Cooperation agreement signed between St Petersburg University and the Mariinsky Theatre
As part of the celebration of the 300th anniversary of Russia’s oldest university, an official ceremony has been held to sign a cooperation agreement between St Petersburg University and the Mariinsky State Academic Theatre.
The document was signed by Elena Chernova, Senior Vice-Rector of St Petersburg University, and Sergei Bannikov, Deputy Artistic and General Director of the Theatre.
According to Elena Chernova, the signing of the agreement is a symbolic act that confirms the desire of both parties to deepen cooperation in the field of art. Previously, the partners had worked together on cultural projects and developed a common creative space in the country. For example, exhibitions of St Petersburg University students’ artwork were held in the halls of the Mariinsky Theatre, and students from the University had the opportunity to interact directly with outstanding cultural and artistic figures.
The Senior Vice-Rector stressed that the cooperation will: further strengthen cultural ties and exchange of best practices between the educational institution and the theatre community; and open new perspectives for students and teachers, providing a unique opportunity for their professional and creative development.
Among the possible joint activities under this agreement, the Senior Vice-Rector of St Petersburg University mentioned: a series of lectures and workshops classes by leading theatre artists; exhibitions of graduation projects by students in the University’s creative fields; the development of academic programmes; concerts; and theatre productions.
The Mariinsky Theatre and St Petersburg University are two brands of St Petersburg. We are particularly pleased that the official signing of the cooperation agreement takes place in the year of the 300th anniversary of the University. Our friendship and close cooperation go back many years, and we are formalising these long-standing ties.
Elena Chernova, Senior Vice-Rector of St Petersburg University
Sergei Bannikov, Deputy Artistic and General Director of the Mariinsky Theatre, for his part, noted that the Mariinsky Theatre always strives to support young talents and create conditions for their career development, and the signed agreement opens new vectors for development in the field of culture and art.
"St Petersburg University and the Mariinsky Theatre, which are famous throughout the world, have had friendly relations for a long time. An existing basis for interaction will, I am sure, ensure the successful implementation of joint projects. The Mariinsky Theatre is open to cooperation with St Petersburg University," said Sergei Bannikov.
The main areas of cooperation will be: the implementation of joint academic programmes in the field of culture and science; the training of high-calibre experts with an in-depth cultural knowledge; and the organisation of joint creative events, including educational seminars, forums, exhibitions, competitions and other projects aimed at preserving national cultural values and developing theatrical art.
A large-scale celebration of the anniversary of St Petersburg University was held in February, with the participation of Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of the Russian Federation and Chairman of the University Board of Trustees, and members of the University Board of Trustees.
Additionally, the second gala concert of Mariinsky opera and ballet soloists was held on the stage of the famous theatre for the students and staff of St Petersburg University in honour of its 300th anniversary.