SANN News
Kathmandu, September 18, 2026: The Nepal–Russia Theatre Week officially opened on Friday at the Russian House in Kathmandu, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Russia and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the Bolshoi Theatre.
The week-long cultural programme has been organised by Shailee Theatre, a long-standing partner of the Russian House.
The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Information and Communications Dr Bikram Timalsina as the chief guest, Nepal Academy of Music and Drama Chancellor Brajesh Khanal as the special guest, and Russian Embassy Minister-Counsellor Rinchen Rakshaev, along with theatre professionals, cultural figures and invited guests.
The programme began with the traditional lighting of the panas, followed by addresses from the guests and organisers.
Head of the Russian House Anastasia Khokhlova highlighted the importance of the anniversary year in strengthening cultural ties between Nepal and Russia. Dr Timalsina spoke about his long-standing admiration for Russian writer Anton Chekhov and described the opening performance as a story of an artist searching for and finding himself.
The theatre week opened with Chekhov’s one-act play “Swan Song”, presented in Nepali under the title “Antim Geet.” The production was directed by Shailee Theatre President Nabaraj Budhathoki and translated by Shailee Theatre Advisor Mahesh Paudyal.
Veteran Nepali theatre artist Sunil Pokharel played the lead role, with Sabbu Gurung as his stage partner. The play explores themes of memory, loneliness, ageing and artistic passion.
Public performances of Antim Geet will be held from September 19 to 21 at the Russian House in Kathmandu, with shows scheduled at 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm each day.
Another major production in the programme is “Bhavamalli,” an original Nepali play written by Mahesh Paudyal and directed by Nabaraj Budhathoki. The production 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. The theatre week highlights the continuing role of cultural exchange and the performing arts in strengthening relations between the two countries.
