Nikitin and Mashkov agreed on the development of the theater in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      On April 20, 2026, at 19:45 Culture and Recreation The government of the Nizhny Novgorod region and the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia signed a cooperation agreement. The document was signed by the governor of the region, the secretary of the regional branch of "United Russia," Gleb Nikitin, and the chairman of the Union, People's Artist of the Russian Federation Vladimir Mashkov. The ceremony took place as part of the Theatre Forum of the Volga Federal District (12+). Gleb Nikitin emphasized that the Nizhny Novgorod branch of the Union is one of the oldest in the country and is annually replenished with young specialists. "It has turned out that in our region, the love for theatre unites different generations of viewers. It becomes a platform for intellectual search and dialogue with national culture. It also preserves and embodies on stage the traditions of the peoples of our multinational country, which is especially important in the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia," said the head of the region. The governor noted that cooperation with the union is a strategically important step for the development of both the region and the country.

      The agreement provides for the creation of a favorable cultural environment, support for theatrical traditions, and the expansion of cultural ties. Key areas include joint projects, including preparations for the 150th anniversary of the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia and events for the 100th anniversary of the birth of actor Yevgeny Yevstigneyev. Vladimir Mashkov noted that this is the first such agreement of the union with a regional government. "In this case, Nizhny Novgorod region is a leading region," he said. According to him, a number of major initiatives have already been planned, including the revival of the International Student Recitation Contest named after Vladimir Yakhontov. Also, in the fall, a stage of the all-Russian project "Theatre. Masters" (16+) dedicated to the memory of Yevstigneyev will take place in the region. The parties also discussed ongoing projects implemented with the support of the regional government. Among them are the all-Russian festival of theatrical capers "Cheerful Goat" (16+) and the festival "Actors of Dramatic Theatres Sing" (12+). In addition, the regional festival "Season Premieres" (12+) is held annually. The chairman of the Nizhny Novgorod branch of the Union, Sergey Kabailo, spoke about the project "Actors of Nizhny — to Donbass." Within its framework, concert front brigades have been formed, which perform as part of humanitarian missions, in temporary accommodation points and hospitals, as well as in front of local residents and military personnel. The Theatre Forum of the Volga Federal District is taking place in Nizhny Novgorod from April 20 to 22 at the Nizhny Novgorod Fair. It has become the eighth in a series of forums of the project "Theatre of Russia. From Heritage to Innovations." About 250 representatives of theatres, specialized educational institutions, and regional branches of the Union from 14 subjects of the Volga Federal District are participating in it. The main goal is to develop a concept for the development of theatre in Russia by 2035. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod." When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+.