An extensive programme of events will run throughout 2014 in both Russia and the UK, celebrating the cultural heritage of both countries.
J Louis Fernandez
The biggest ever programme of UK cultural projects is set to take place across Russia, in parallel with a showcase of Russian culture in the United Kingdom. Although the official launch will take place in April with an exhibition called ‘The Golden Age of the Russian Avant-Garde’ at the Moscow Museum and Exhibition Association Manege, the programme of events will run all year, ending with an exhibition at the Science Museum in London about Russian space exploration. It was announced by The British Council and the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the UK-Russia Year of Culture will celebrate the rich and diverse cultural heritage of both countries and aims to foster cultural exchange whilst developing stronger relations between people, institutions and governments. Olga Golodets, the Deputy Prime Minister for Social Affairs of the Russian Federation, said: “… we are hugely pleased to announce that 2014 will be the Russia-UK Year of Culture. More than 250 events in the sphere of culture, science, education and sports, which will be held both in Russia and the UK, will undoubtedly attract the attention of many people, including youth. It will serve the cause of better mutual understanding between our peoples, will lay a solid foundation for long-term cooperation in the future in various areas.”
The British Council will programme the UK events in Russia, including ‘Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style’ at Moscow Multimedia Art Museum and a celebration of Shakespeare’s 450th birthday at the Chekhov International Festival. The Russian Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs will lead on the programme for the UK, which will include performances by The Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra and Sretensky Monastery Choir. The British Council has also announced BP as the first UK Founder Sponsor of the Year of Culture. BP are long-standing supporters of arts and culture in Russia, with a ten year partnership with the Mariinsky, who will be presenting extensive programmes in both the UK and Russia.
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