Kathmandu, September: The Nepal-Russia Theatre Week began in Kathmandu on Friday, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia and the 250th anniversary of the Bolshoi Theatre.

The week-long programme, organised by Shailee Theatre in partnership with the Russian House, was inaugurated at the Russian House in Kathmandu.

Information and Communications Minister Dr Bikram Timalsina attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest. Nepal Academy of Music and Drama Chancellor Brajesh Khanal and Russian Embassy Minister-Counsellor Rinchen Rakshaev were also present.

The programme opened with a performance of Anton Chekhov’s one-act play “Swan Song,” presented in Nepali as “Antim Geet.” The play was directed by Shailee Theatre President Nabaraj Budhathoki and translated by Mahesh Paudyal.

Veteran Nepali theatre artist Sunil Pokharel played the lead role, with Sabbu Gurung as his stage partner.

Public performances of the play are scheduled for September 19–21 at the Russian House in Kathmandu, with shows at 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. each day.

Another major production on the programme is “Bhavamalli,” an original Nepali play written by Mahesh Paudyal and directed by Nabaraj Budhathoki. The play features Shailee Theatre actor Aakash Bhujel Jaisi and other artists, with musical accompaniment from the Music Department of Padmakanya Multiple Campus.

Nepal and Russia established diplomatic relations in 1956, with cultural exchanges forming an important part of bilateral ties over the decades.