Bolshoi head leaves theater after criticism of Putin's war
The head of Moscow's world-famous Bolshoi Theater, Vladimir Urin, has left the state theater after criticizing Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. "I am saying goodbye today because today is my last day of work at the Bolshoi Theater," said the 76-year-old at a premiere celebration in front of the company, according to a video circulated on the internet. A spokeswoman for the theater confirmed the authenticity of the video to the German Press Agency on Friday. She announced that the theater would issue an official statement on Friday. Last year, Urin had signed a declaration of cultural workers against the war.
According to Russian media, the Bolshoi director could be replaced by the internationally renowned conductor Valery Gergiev, who is a close friend of Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Gergiyev lost his post as chief conductor of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra a few days after Putin's invasion began because he had not distanced himself from the war.
The 70-year-old already conducts the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, which is also famous for its worldwide guest performances. In response to reports about his possible appointment, Gergiyev explained that he was already very busy and was not looking for more work.
Media: Post relinquished at his own request
Urin, who is regarded as a brilliant theater manager, took over the management of the Bolshoi, which has the largest ballet company in the world and an internationally renowned opera and concert division, in 2013. The media had reported that he was leaving the post at his own request. No official reason was given. His contract would have been valid until 2027.
Just two days after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Urin had signed an appeal to end the war together with other cultural figures. Many Bolshoi artists had ended their engagement at the theater at their own request or by force due to the war and the resulting Western sanctions.
Source: www.dpa.com
