‘Russian Seasons” has chosen Thailand to debut its unique 21st-century cultural diplomacy project in Southeast Asia.
Its mission is to promote Russia as a country that carefully preserves and develops its rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Historically, “Russian Seasons” appeared more than 100 years ago, when in 1908 the impresario Sergei Diaghilev started to organise performances of Russian opera and ballet in Europe and America alongside fine arts exhibitions.
The 2026 programme will offer diverse themes and formats from classical music concerts and theatre productions to film festivals, art exhibitions, educational projects, lectures and master classes.
The opening highlight is “From Classics To Jazz”, an evening of Russian music and virtuosity featuring world-renowned pianist Denis Matsuev supported by the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra at Thailand Cultural Centre next Friday.
The first half is expected to showcase Matsuev’s renowned technical power and “Siberian” temperament with a classical repertoire. The second half usually transitions to jazz standards and original improvisations when Matsuev is joined by an ensemble.
Conducted by Yuri Tkachenko, the musical extravaganza will include works by Bernstein, Grieg, Khachaturian, Rimsky-Korsakov and Saint-Saëns.
Following “From Classics To Jazz”, the Russian embassy announced there would be more classical music, folk dance, theatrical performances, thematic art exhibitions and film screenings.
“Dedication To Rachmaninoff” on March 1, at Lotus Arena in Phuket, will feature pianist Dmitry Masleev and the Altai State Youth Song and Dance Ensemble. There will be a special choreographed performance to Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto.
And the “Concert Of Dance” featuring the State Philharmonic of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic will be staged on March 2, at Aksra Theatre in Bangkok.
Meanwhile, SFX Cinema in Central Phuket will host the Russian Film Festival 2026 and offer free admission.
Tickets for “From Classics to Jazz” range from 800 to 3,000 baht and are available at thaiticketmajor.com and rbsothailand.com. For more information, visit facebook.com/RussiaInThai.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/3200555/russian-seasons-chooses-thailand-for-southeast-asian-cultural-debut