Russian Theatre Union set to partner with Estonian theatre group

According to the Estonian Ministry of Culture, the Russian Theatre Union has expressed interest in partnering with Estonian theatre group Vaba Lava (Open Stage).

In particular, the Russian Theatre Union will look at ways in which it might partner with Vaba Lava, an organisation that brings together small theatres all over Estonia, in its new venture in the city of Narva, the third largest city in Estonia.

“The Russian Theatre Union is extremely interested in creative collaboration with the Vaba Lava theatre in Narva, and is ready to consider the possibility of joint creative workshops, tours, master classes, workshops and other events related to theatre”, wrote the chairman of the Russian Theatre Union, Alexander Kalyagin, in a letter to the Estonian Minister of Culture, Indrek Saar.

“The Russian Theatre Union would be very grateful if, in considering financial support for Vaba Lava in Narva, Vaba Lava would count on our creative participation,” Mr Kalyagin added.

Vaba Lava plans to build a multi-purpose hall in Narva, to be used for theatre performances, concerts, workshops and film screenings. This space will be created within the administration building of a former factory. The organisation opened a creative space in Tallinn last year.

According to a member of Vaba Lava’s board, Allan Kaldoja, the centre in Narva will see master classes led by prominent Moscow and St Petersburg theatrical figures.

“Narva is a wonderful place, with many creative people, but they don’t go on stage because there is no modern theatre in Narva,” he said.

Source: ERR and RIA Novosti (in Russian)