Valery Gergiev supports the initiative to create a branch of the Bolshoi Theater in Kuzbass

Famous conductor, Artistic Director of the Mariinsky Theater and General Director of the Bolshoi Theater Valery Gergiev supported the initiative of the Governor of the Kemerovo region Sergei Tsivilev to create a branch of the Bolshoi Theater in Kuzbass. The announcement was made by  Sergei Tsivilev on his telegraph channel and was reported by Сибдепо (Kuzbass’ local media).

During his working visit to Kemerovo, Valery Gergiev examined the construction of the Opera and Ballet Theatre, gave a concert by the joint symphony orchestras of the Mariinsky Theatre and the Bolshoi Theatre, and celebrated his 71st birthday in Kuzbass.

Gergiev reacted enthusiastically to Sergei Tsivilev's proposal to open a branch of the Bolshoi Theater in Kuzbass and immediately informed the Bolshoi Theater's soloists of his desire to perform here more frequently.

“Gergiev also suggested that acoustic tests be carried out on the Opera and Ballet Theatre during the next Easter holiday season,” the governor added, adding that the 25th edition of the festival, scheduled for 2026, will be held on a completely new stage, and that the new theater will be built on behalf of the head of state, Vladimir Putin. The project is currently at the stage of discussion and planning, where experts are deciding whether to build opera and ballet theaters in the area, and Valery Gergiev has already personally expressed his support for the construction.”