In a significant and long-awaited event, a new concert venue was opened in Vladikavkaz as part of the Moscow Easter Festival. The former 'Komsomolets' cinema has now opened its doors to guests as 'Pate'. The opening ceremony was attended by Valery Gergiev, the artistic director and director of the Mariinsky Theatre, and the General Director of the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia. This marks a milestone in the cultural landscape of the region.
Before the concert, all musical instruments were meticulously checked, ensuring everything was in perfect condition. The Mariinsky collective, under Gergiev's watchful eye, was eager to assess the possibilities of the new concert venue. Despite its small size, the hall can accommodate ambitious symphonies, a testament to its design and acoustics.
Gergiev, who was closely monitoring the orchestra's rehearsals, expressed his enthusiasm for the new space. He was joined by Sergei Menyaylo, the head of the republic, who also appreciated the cultural development this venue represents. Menyaylo noted, "It's pleasant to observe the cultural development of the region," highlighting the importance of such facilities in fostering local talent and appreciation for the arts.
The inaugural performance opened with a vibrant French musical composition, 'L'apres-midi d'un faune', conducted by Gergiev himself. The collective performed under the direction of Lorenzo Nasturica-Hershovici, a soloist from the Mariinsky Theatre, who shared his excitement about performing in his homeland. "When you come to the homeland of your conductor, you immerse yourself in a special state. It’s like performing in your own homeland," Nasturica-Hershovici remarked, reflecting on the significance of the occasion.
Following the small hall's opening, another concert was held in the larger hall of the cultural center, where the Mariinsky artists showcased their talent in front of an enthusiastic audience. The program featured Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4, known as the 'Italian Symphony', along with Stravinsky's 'Firebird' suite and Ravel's 'Bolero'. Once again, Gergiev took to the conductor's podium, leading a combined orchestra from the Mariinsky and Bolshoi Theaters.
Tickets for the performance sold out within a day, demonstrating the community's eagerness to support their local artists and celebrate the return of cultural events. Many attendees included compatriots from beyond the republic, eager to witness Gergiev's mastery firsthand.
The newly renovated venue, funded by Gergiev's charitable foundation, boasts a total area of more than two thousand square meters. It is designed to host various cultural events, including performances, competitions, creative programs, festivals, and themed evenings. The transformation of the old cinema into a cultural hub is a remarkable achievement, as the building was originally constructed in 1878, making it one of the oldest architectural monuments in North Ossetia.
During the opening ceremony, Gergiev took a moment to express his gratitude to Vyacheslav Bitarov, the ex-head of North Ossetia, for his support in the reconstruction of the former cinema building. He recalled that discussions about the fate of 'Komsomolets' began four years ago, and now, the result is a beautiful cultural center that serves both adults and children.
Sergei Menyaylo, addressing the audience at the opening of the Moscow Easter Festival, emphasized the importance of reviving such cultural landmarks that were lost for various reasons over time. The old cinema, cherished by Vladikavkaz residents, has regained its status as a beloved cultural center, now enriched with modern amenities.
The new Cultural Center includes a large concert hall with 498 seats, museum and exhibition spaces, and a small concert hall that accommodates up to 150 guests. This multifaceted venue is expected to become a focal point for cultural activities in the region, providing a platform for both local and visiting artists.
The Stradivari Ensemble of the Mariinsky Theater performed on the revived stage of Pate, featuring musicians who play on stringed instruments crafted by legendary Italian masters from the 17th and 18th centuries, including Nicolo Amati, Antonio Stradivari, and Giuseppe Guarneri. Each instrument carries its own unique story, adding to the richness of the performance experience.
As the evening unfolded, the audience was treated to a blend of classical masterpieces, showcasing the talent of the musicians and the acoustics of the new venue. The atmosphere was electric, with attendees captivated by the artistry and the significance of the occasion. Gergiev’s presence and leadership in this cultural revival have sparked excitement and hope for the future of the arts in the region.
In summary, the opening of the 'Pate' concert venue marks a new chapter for cultural life in Vladikavkaz, providing a much-needed space for artistic expression and community engagement. As Valery Gergiev aptly noted, "Today, it is essential to develop cultural life in small regions," and the Moscow Easter Festival serves as a perfect opportunity to introduce the classics to the residents of North Ossetia.
