Slavianski Bazaar kicks off in Vitebsk

VITEBSK, 17 July (BelTA) – Slavic traditions, confidence in the future and ability to overcome difficulties – these were some of the themes of the opening ceremony of the International Festival of Arts Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk that kicked off on 16 July, BelTA has learned.

The opening words of the festival were said in three languages. These are the languages of the countries that founded the festival.

Traditionally, the festival was opened by Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko. This year the head of state presented the Belarusian president's special award Through Art to Peace and Understanding to Filipp Kirkorov. The artist noted that it was a great honor for him to receive one of Belarus' main awards for the second time. His first award was the Order of Francysk Skaryna.

Addressing the president Filipp Kirkorov gave a hint that he would not mind becoming People's Artist of Belarus. “I am People's Artist of Russia, People's Artist of Ukraine and People's Artist of Moldova,” said the singer and the audience applauded.

“I remember,” responded the president.

The Russian artist performed some of his songs. After that another singer, Oleg Mityayev took to the stage. He was followed by People's Artist of Ukraine Nikolai Gnatyuk.

This year the music forum is held under the motto “I love you, life”. Art and culture are supposed to give people hope and inspiration. Artists taking to the stage thanked healthcare workers of Belarus, Ukraine and Russia.

The common tragic and heroic history, the memory of the Great Patriotic War were also important themes of the concert.

Taking to the stage were award-winning artists and rising stars from Belarus, Russia, Ukraine and other countries.

The Belarusian band Pesnyary and Alyona Lanskaya sang a song celebrating the beauty of Belarus.

Over the years the festival has become not only an important music event, but also a place where friends meet and new stars are born.