INTERNATIONAL PUSHKIN PRIZE
The Pushkin Prize, established in 2014, aims to promote and strengthen cultural ties between Russia and Italy. It promotes various forms of art, literature, and popular science, emphasizing the profound relationship between the two cultures.
The award is named after Alexander Pushkin, it symbolizes not only recognition of him as the founder of modern Russian literature, but also an appeal to his unique cultural and spiritual heritage. As Fyodor Dostoevsky noted in his famous speech delivered on June 8, 1880, on the occasion of the unveiling of the Pushkin monument in Moscow: "Pushkin is a phenomenon, and perhaps a unique phenomenon of the Russian soul, as Gogol said. The phenomenon is prophetic."
The Pushkin Prize highlights Pushkin’s greatness as a cultural figure and serves as an important link in supporting creative initiatives connecting two great nations.
https://pushkin-prize.org/it
https://premio-pushkin.ru
The event began with a wonderful performance by the Orpheus musical quartet, accompanied by the charming voice of soprano Natalia Pavlova. The highlight of the evening was Alexander Pushkin's poem "Autumn", read by actor Pavel Zelinsky and translated by award winner Annеliеse Alleva.
Guests and laureates expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality of the Villa Altieri National Archaeological Museum and were fascinated by the sculpture "Flight" by Josephine Caserta, honorary member of the International Academy of Contemporary Art. This artwork symbolizes the power of freedom, the universality of the human soul, and the lightness of spirit transcending history and time.
The VII International Pushkin Prize will take place in 2025 in Moscow.
The purpose of Grand Historical Ball is to connect people from different countries living in Europe with Russian culture through classical music, literature, and historical dances. The event promotes the development of cultural relations between Italy and Russia, while also contributing to the formation of a positive image of Russia.
Since 2011 the Association has been organising the prestigious "Grand Historical Ball" at the elegant Brancaccio Palace (Spazio Field, Via Merulana 248). Every year, the ball is dedicated to one of Russia's great poets, writers, or artists, celebrating their work, music, and lasting contributions to the world of art. Previous editions of the ball have honored monumental figures such as Lev Tolstoy and his masterpiece "War and Peace", Anton Chekhov and his play "The Cherry Orchard", Mikhail Lermontov's opera "The Masquerade Ball", and Alexander Pushkin with his iconic novel "Eugene Onegin". In addition, special evenings have been held in honour of Sergei Rachmaninoff and Pyotr Tchaikovsky, celebrating the 150th anniversary of their birth.
Grand Historical Ball is not only a tribute to culture, but also a step into the future, strengthening the cultural bridges between nations.
http://granballostoricoroma.ru
Over the years, various editions of the event of the Great Historical Ball have welcomed some of the greatest dancers and celebrities of the Raiuno Dancing with the Stars TV program, such as Natalia Titova, Samuel Peron, Anastasia Kuzmina, Maria Ermachkova, Oksana Lebedeva. Also among our guests were international stars such as Randall Paul, Nikolaj Burlyaev, Olga Kabo; harpist and composer Sasha Boldachev; fashion designer Anna Fendi; Al Bano with his daughter Cristel Carrisi, Michele Placido; actresses Alika Smekhova, Marina Orlova, Marina Kazankova, Daria Baykalova; actor Michail Gul'dan; opera singers Natalia Pavlova, Ekaterina Marmilo, Yulia Zykova, Ekaterina Zarechnaya, Nina Zaziyants and Elena Diadianova; Le Etoile Diana Popova and Kirill Popov; pianists Alexey Vaker and Gaia Vazzoler; cellist Georgy Gusev; international orchestra conducted by maestro Victor Vasiladi; Turkish artist Emir Buhari, CNDC Classical Dance Department conducted by Debora Bianco.
Each of these remarkable individuals and talents contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of creativity and cultural exchange that we strive to nurture and celebrate through this extraordinary event.
A meeting of representatives of the Italy–Russia Friendship Association from 12 regions of Italy was held at the Russian House in Rome. The conference brought together more than 100 participants dedicated to preserving the memory of the Great Victory, cultural ties and historical truth. The event was not only an occasion to celebrate the century of people's diplomacy, but also a reminder of the power of human connections even in the era of political storms. Russian Ambassador in Italy Alexey Paramonov stressed that thanks to the efforts of the associations, numerous myths planted from above were debunked, cultural projects were developed, and interest in learning the Russian language was maintained.
A song that unites
One of the most touching moments was the joint musical project of the cultural association "Friends of Great Russia", dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. The legendary song "Victory Day", performed in Russian and Italian, was performed within its framework. This composition united generations: it was enthusiastically picked up by young people, veterans, and Italian friends of Russia. The project was inspired by the organizers, Yulia Bazarova, head of the cultural association "Amici della Grande Russia", which also represents the Women's Assembly in Rome.; Eleonora Kim, art director of the composer and singer Renato Monti and the cultural development сenter "Friends of the Whole World". The video editing was supervised by Lilia Belaya.
The Association, in collaboration with the Sandro Teti Editore publishing house, organized a special presentation of Laura Salmon's book "Once upon a Time in the USSR. A Love Story" During the event, publisher Sandro Teti introduced Laura Simon, a writer, translator and professor of Slavic Studies, as well as Director of the Department of Russian Language and Literature at the University of Genoa. Laura Salmon is an outstanding Slavist, whose contribution to the Italian translation of Russian literature is invaluable. She translated into Italian such great authors as Leo Tolstoy ("Anna Karenina", “Kreutzer's Sonata", “The Death of Ivan Ilyich"), F. M. Dostoevsky, I. S. Turgenev and S. D. Dovlatov. She performed a metrical translation of poems by Boris Ryzhy and "Feast during the Plague" by Alexander Pushkin.
During the evening, the author engaged with the guests, answering their questions and providing insights into her work. Several excerpts from the book were also read aloud. At the end of the event, attendees had the opportunity to purchase the book at a discounted price and receive a personal autograph from the author, making the evening even more special and memorable.
The evening was presented by the founders of the literary salon, Carlotta Gherardini and Paolo Dragonetti de Torres, and featured several esteemed speakers and guests who engaged in thought-provoking discussions on various literary topics. In honor of the 225th anniversary of the birth of the great poet Alexander Pushkin, poems and verses by Pushkin were read during the event, paying tribute to his enduring legacy. After the literary part of the evening, the guests, poets, artists, together with the founders continued the celebration in the restaurant "L'arcano" in a cozy and inspiring atmosphere.
Members of the cultural association "Amici della Grande Russia" (Prof. Antongiulio De Robertis, Manlio Lo Presti, Franco Alfredo Nicoletti, Gianluca Petrucci, Paolo Dragonetti de Torres Rutili) met with Irina Arkadievna Krayeva, Rector of MGLU, and Olga Gennadievna Egorova, Doctor of Philology, Professor, for a cooperation in cultural events.
The evening culminated in a musical journey led by the exceptional Italian violinist Erica Fini. Her virtuoso performance gave the guests unforgettable moments to the sounds of works by such great composers as P. Tchaikovsky, W. A. Mozart, A. Vivaldi and many others. The melodies that bridge Russia and Italy resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the significance of cultural connections between the two nations.
In 1943, Dr. Felice Cason, the commander of a partisan detachment in Italy, wrote a patriotic song called "The Wind Whistles", which was based on the melody of "Katyusha", which confirms the enormous popularity and influence of this song on the international arena.
"Laura" is a portrait composed of short stories about the extraordinary relationship between the brilliant poet, screenwriter, and artist Tonino Guerra, and his wife Laura Guerra. Through Laura's memories of working with Guerra and Fellini, as well as her reflections on love and beauty, the film helps us understand why Tonino Guerra, upon meeting Laura, decided to spend his life with her forever.
The program of the evening featured an excellent performance by soprano Marianna Ivashchenko with musical works by Rimsky-Korsakov, Rachmaninoff, Glinka, Tchaikovsky. The final scene is "Tatiana's Letter" and the aria "O mio babbino caro" from Puccini's opera Gianni Schicchi. All the musical plays were thoughtfully presented within the theme of intercultural communication. Russian culture lovers read poems and excerpts from Alexander Pushkin's prose both in Russian and in Italian translation between the musical numbers. Speakers: Elena Litasova, Manlio Lo Presti - stanzas 4, 5 and 6 of the poem "Eugene Onegin", Marcia Sorbia - "Renaissance", Franco Nicoletti, who presented the life of Alexander Pushkin, Maddalena S. Del Re - "Land and Sea", Anna Gentilini and Giuseppe Cerazari - "Autumn" translated by Annalisa Alleva.
On February 9, 2023, a new film was presented in Moscow-the adventure comedy “To Be” starring Oleg Gaas, Fyodor Dobronravov, Vladimir Sychev, and others.
The plot of the film tells about a young rapper Ilya, who grew up without parents and desperately strives to get to the top of the charts. Determined to succeed at any cost, Ilya finds himself mysteriously transported back in time from 2023 to 1993, where he meets his young parents and becomes involved in the events of that era. With only three days to change the course of his family’s future, Ilya’s choices will determine whether he has a future at all. The film is a light-hearted family comedy filled with action, humor, clever tricks, and the use of modern technology.
During the demonstration lawyer Leo Maria Galati delivered a powerful speech, stating: "Culture is something that is connected with the development of a person on an intellectual and moral level and with awareness of his role in society. Erasure or exclusion from history and culture creates a social generation that builds ideological walls rather than bridges for dialogue.”
Among the speakers were: Daria Puchkova, Director of the Russian Center for Science and Culture “Rossotrudnichestvo Italia”, Leo Maria Galati, one of the organizers of the event, journalist Gianfranco Vestuto, director of Russian News, observer for the Eurasian space, and commentator on Russia on television talk shows about Russia.
The main slogan of the protest was: "Culture is a dialogue between peoples, not Russophobia, not the abolition of culture, but the true truth about culture."
- Honored Artist of Russia Sergey Murzaev (bass-baritone),
- Julia Zykova-Veloche (soprano),
- Natalia Korshunova (piano),
- Artists of the Tchaikovsky Grand Symphony Orchestra.
It was an unforgettable evening, filled with magnificent music and a truly inspiring atmosphere that captivated all in attendance.
12 October - screening of the film "Sin" in Italian with Russian subtitles.
14 October -meeting with director Andrei Konchalovsky and actress Yulia Vysotskaya.
The film "Sin"was produced in collaboration with RAI Cinema. The role of Michelangelo is played by Alberto Testone. The cast also includes Orso Maria Guerrini, Massimo De Frankovich, Nicola Adobati, Nicola De Paola, Jacob Diehl, Francesco Gaudiello, Federico Vanni, Simone Toffanin and others. A cameo role was played by actress Yulia Vysotskaya, the director's wife. Filming lasted 14 weeks in various Italian cities, including Rome, Florence, and Carrara. The film explores the later period of Michelangelo's life, when he created some of his most iconic works, such as the Sistine Chapel, the tomb of Pope Julius II, and the facade of the Basilica of St. Lorenzo. This period in Michelangelo’s life marked some of the most significant artistic, social, and moral decisions he ever made.
The event began with the opening of an exhibition by Russian artist and sculptor Lisa Atzori called "The Feminine Mystery". The exhibition was dedicated to the portrayal of the female form, celebrating the beauty, grace, and emotional world of women. Following the exhibition, the event continued with a powerful display of unity, as the national anthems of Russia and Italy were performed. The competition was graciously sponsored by several esteemed organizations, including the Municipality of Rome, CONI, the Center for Russian Science and Culture, the Italian-Russian Chamber of Commerce, and various embassies. The performance of soprano singer Elena Martemyanova and the international beauty contest "MISS RUSSIA AND CIS COUNTRIES" in two categories: from 18 to 35 years old ("Miss Beauty") and from 35 to 55 years old ("Miss Beauty and Wisdom").
Italian and Russian intellectuals meet in public for the first time in the theater "Writer's House", at the FUIS (Federation of Italian Writers' Unions) headquarters on May 29, 2018. This date marks the official birth of the Literary Salon, an initiative that was first conceived earlier, on February 29, 2016, by a passionate young Italian artist, Carlotta Ghirardini, a portraitist and advocate for the promotion of culture at all levels, along with her close friend Paolo Dragonetti de Torres Rutili, co-founder of the "Amici della Grande Russia".
The salon’s first public meeting focused on an open discussion of Boris Ryzhy, one of the greatest poets of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Despite his brief life, the young Russian poet, relatively unknown to many, managed to revolutionize world poetics in a remarkably short period of time.
The event took place on the intimate stage of the FUIS theater, where the President of FUIS, Antonio Rossi, warmly welcomed the guests. The founders of the Friends of Great Russia Cultural Association, Yulia Bazarova and Paolo Dragonetti de Torres Rutili, also addressed the audience. A heartfelt congratulatory message was delivered by the founder of the literary salon, Carlotta Ghirardini, as well as by the renowned poet and translator Natalia Stepanova.
The discussion then continued with a lecture by Professor Laura Salmon, a distinguished Russian translator, Slavist, and professor of Russian Language and Culture at the University of Genoa. Her insightful presentation on Boris Ryzhy's poetry helped the audience grasp the profound intensity and messages embedded in the young Ural poet’s innovative work.Then the speech was given by Marco Guitarrari, President of the international prize "European Literary Cathedrals". In conclusion, Alexey Bukalov, winner of the 2018 Pushkin Prize for Literature in the Capitol, as well as director of the ITAR-TASS news agency in Rome, joined the conversation.
This historic meeting marked the beginning of an ongoing exchange between Italian and Russian intellectuals, fostering dialogue, cultural collaboration, and a deeper understanding of each other's literary heritage.
As part of the prestigious "World Energy Week", Kalinka Art artists were invited to entertain the audience with their traditional dances and songs. Among the guests of honor was Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak, who personally extended his congratulations to our talented performers.
A highlight of the event was the announcement by the World Energy Council, selecting Russia as the host country for the XXV World Energy Congress.
On January 16, Palazzo Santacroce hosted a memorable evening celebrating the careers of famous Russian film and theater actresses Olga Kabo and Alika Smekhova. The Center for Russian Science and Culture, "Events" and "Sweet Life" organized this important meeting with the Russian artist. This event was organized by the Rome Center for Russian Science and Culture, EventiRome and the magazine "Dolce Vita".
The special evening dedicated to Italian culture and cinema became an unforgettable event for all the guests. Actress Olga Kabo, known for her deep feelings for Italian art, shared her personal experience that connects her with the world of Italian cinema. The evening was particularly poignant as she recalled her collaborations with the legendary screenwriter and poet, Tonino Guerra. Kabo also expressed her deep love for poetry and discussed the significant role Italy has played in shaping her artistic journey.
One of the exceptional guests of the event was the famous Russian actress, pop singer and TV presenter, Honored Artist of Russia Alika Smekhova. In her heartfelt speech, Smekhova shared that her lifelong dream had always been to become a pop singer. For her, Italy represents the humor and grandeur of iconic composers like Giuseppe Verdi and Gaetano Donizetti. During the evening, she performed several well-loved songs, enchanting the audience with her talent.
The art evening was held as part of the completion of the Year of Cinema in Russia and contributed to the strengthening of Russian-Italian cultural and film relations.
As part of the evening's cultural program, a presentation of Nikolai Burlyaev's book "My Lermontov" and a screening of the feature film "Lermontov" took place. Additionally, Nikolai Burlyaev presented a unique series of books "Life in three volumes". These three volumes cover the author's main works (prose, poetry, essays, and memoirs) written between 1966 and 2011. The books focus on Russian culture of the second half of the XX century and the beginning of the XXI century and remind of such great cultural figures as A. Tarkovsky, V. Vysotsky, N. Mordvinov, S. Bondarchuk, G. Sviridov and other actors with whom Burlyaev worked and was friends.
Materials from his films have become a real treasure trove of world cinema, including "Ivan's Childhood", "Andrey Rublev", "The Master and Margarita". Speeches and articles about film culture, such as "Twins", "Pushkin", "Lermontov", as well as the autobiographical novel "Ivan Volnov" form an important part of Nikolai Burlyaev's creative legacy.
The opening of the Great Russian Ball was marked by the beautiful sounds of famous works by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed by violinist Diana Arshakyan. The evening also featured readings of excerpts from the greatest works of Russian literature, including "War and Peace" and "Anna Karenina". The role of Anna Karenina was beautifully portrayed by the magnificent Natalia Titova, who appeared in a striking scarlet red dress with gloves and a pearl necklace, designed by the renowned Maria Laura Froyo.
A special highlight of the evening was the solemn ceremony of awarding the "International Pushkin Prize", which seeks to strengthen the cultural dialogue between Russia and Italy. This prestigious award is supported by a Scientific Committee chaired by Professor and literary critic Arnaldo Colasanti. The prize was awarded to poet and university lecturer Antonella Anedde, whose works beautifully capture the lyrical and symbolic values found in the finest traditions of Russian literature, echoing the works of Anna Akhmatova and Marina Tsvetaeva.