Performers and cultural figures from all continents have gathered at a traditional Slavic Festival in Vitebsk, Belarus. The Festival “Slavyansky Bazaar in Vitebsk” was established right after the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1992 at the initiative of Russia, Byelorussia, and Ukraine, who sought a new way for integration. It’s the 17th such event this year, and it kicks off today.
Byelorussian Deputy Culture Minister Vladimir Rylatko commented, “Slavyansky Bazaar originated as a protest from the artistic communities of Ukraine, Russia and Belarus against the break-up of the family of Slavic peoples. The forum’s priority is to preserve our common cultural space and good neighbourly relations. Though, the banner of the festival invites all willing to join, saying that the doors of the Slavic house are open for all”.
Indeed, the Slavic house has flung its doors open to representatives from all continents. The housewarming audiences will be applauding to groups and lead singers from 35 countries, including Portugal, Austria, Venezuela, South Africa, China, Israel, and of course, Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. “Slavyansky Bazaar”, according the Culture Minister Aleksandr Avdeyev, is also a social and political highlight whose festive atmosphere facilitates understanding and constructive talks. A new cultural cooperation agreement between Slavic countries is to be signed in Vitebsk within the next few days.
This year, guests to the Vitebsk Festival will see theatrical shows and films, visit exhibitions and a book fair, and judge the participants of a song contest and the mastery of music performers working in different genres. Saturday, 12 July, is the Day of Russia, which will feature a full spectrum of Russia’s multi-ethnic culture.
11 July 2008
Olga Bugrova
Voice of Russia World Service
http://www.ruvr.ru/main.php?lng=eng&q=29584&cid=62&p=11.07.2008 (in English)
