A large-scale touring program featuring leading artistic groups has been underway across Azerbaijan since March, initiated and organized by the Ministry of Culture. The program, which aligns with the "Azerbaijan Culture - 2040" concept, aims to increase the accessibility of culture in the regions and establish a unified cultural ecosystem throughout the country. Prominent art figures have highly praised the initiative for its role in regional development.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing Oxu.az, renowned composer and People's Artist Eldar Mansurov spoke about the significance of the project. He recalled that during the 1960s and 70s, concerts and theatrical performances by both artistic ensembles and individual performers were regularly organized in the regions of Azerbaijan.
"As a child, I watched performances and concerts in various regions with my father. I witnessed our Opera and Ballet Theater's performances in Ganja and Nakhchivan. Since the stages in village clubs were small, fragments of operas were performed. Audiences welcomed these cultural programs with great interest. It is commendable that the Ministry of Culture is now restoring this tradition. While our art groups and artists tour abroad to promote our culture, it is equally vital to organize such trips to our own regions. Professional performances shape the aesthetic taste of the audience, as classical art distances them from low-quality music," Mansurov stated.
The People's Artist added that he hopes this initiative becomes a permanent tradition. "I am confident that this respect and attention shown to regional audiences will result in increased interest in professional art. My wish is for this action to become a tradition and continue every year," he noted.
The "Azerbaijan Culture - 2040" strategy is a comprehensive state roadmap designed to preserve national heritage while integrating modern creative industries. By bringing high-level performances to cities like Ganja and Nakhchivan, the government seeks to bridge the cultural gap between the capital and the provinces, ensuring that all citizens of Azerbaijan have access to the nation's rich musical and theatrical legacy.
