A large-scale cultural programme organised by the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts GITIS in collaboration with the National Institute of Arts and Culture (INSAAC) took place in Côte d’Ivoire. This marked the second creative meeting between GITIS and Ivorian cultural professionals, further strengthening a growing tradition of international exchange.
During the week, Russian choreographer, GITIS graduate and faculty member Ilya Saushkin led masterclasses for professional Ivorian dancers. As a result of this collaboration, a new dance piece was created, combining the traditions and techniques of both schools. The project on the Ivorian side was supported by Herman Nikoko, a leading teacher at INSAAC.
The programme culminated in a concert on March 6 at the State Palace of Culture in Abidjan, where Ivorian dancers presented the choreography created during the project, while GITIS students performed their own pieces. Together with local artists, they also staged a choreographic composition and performed a lively combination of Russian dance movements set to Kalinka. The concert programme also featured the renowned Ivorian dance group Aaninka, whose members had previously led a masterclass for GITIS students who were part of the exchange program.
The programme was organised with the support of the ARUCI Association, GITIS’s partner in Côte d’Ivoire.