Shvydkoy, who is also the artistic director of the Moscow Musical Theater, attended screenings of the theater’s productions ‘The Circus Princess’ and the film ‘Reverse’ in Tbilisi on June 14 and 15.
During the visit, he said culture could play an important role in restoring trust between Russia and Georgia.
“I think that culture is an area that can restore the atmosphere of trust that existed between our countries. People always strive toward each other, and we have quite deep ties,” Shvydkoy said.
He suggested that the Moscow Theater’s productions could help deepen contacts with representatives of Georgian society.
“I think this will arouse interest among our colleagues because we want to introduce Georgia to contemporary Russian art, painting, cinematography, and the work of contemporary artists as much as possible. Of course, we will do only what will be acceptable and comfortable for our Georgian partners, although, in my opinion, such cultural initiatives have their own significance,” he said.
Shvydkoy also stated that Russia remains open to Georgian artists and performers.
“It must be said that many Georgian artists work in Russia. Large Georgian groups regularly tour there, and a number of famous musicians and performers live and work in Russia,” he said.
This is Shvydkoy’s second visit to Georgia in the past three months. He previously visited Tbilisi as one of the heads of the Russian delegation attending a funeral ceremony of Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia, Ilia II.
