March 10 is Azerbaijan National Theater Day.
Medianews.az reports that this year marks the 153rd anniversary of the Azerbaijan National Theater.
This date is considered an important milestone in the formation and development of the country's rich theatrical traditions. The history of Azerbaijani theater dates back to 1873. It was on March 10 of that year that the comedy "The Vizier of the Khan of Lankaran" by the great playwright Mirza Fatali Akhundzadeh was staged by students of the Baku Real School and enlightened intellectuals.
The renowned educator Hasan bey Zardabi and Najaf bey Vazirov played an important role in the production of the performance. This first play staged through their initiative marked the beginning of a new stage in the history of national theater and gave a strong impetus to the development of theater art in the following years.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Azerbaijani theater began to develop rapidly. During this period, the works of notable figures such as Jalil Mammadguluzadeh, Abdurrahim bey Hagverdiyev, and Uzeyir Hajibeyov played an important role in the development of national dramaturgy. On the theater stage, artists like Huseyn Arablinski, Sidgi Ruhulla, and others contributed to the formation of a new school of acting.
Azerbaijani theater art continued its development during the Soviet era, with new theater troupes established and examples of classical and modern dramaturgy staged. In the years of independence, the development of the national theater has become one of the important directions of state policy. One significant decision in this area is the presidential decree by Heydar Aliyev which has officially marked March 10 as National Theater Day since 1998.
Today, theaters operating in Azerbaijan – including the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theater, Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, Azerbaijan State Young Spectators Theater, and other stages – work on promoting national dramaturgy, preserving the classical heritage, and implementing new creative searches.
Theater is not only a stage art but also one of the indicators of the moral and cultural development of society. In this regard, Azerbaijani theater has played an important role over the years in shaping the national identity, aesthetic thinking, and public opinion of the people.
On the occasion of National Theater Day, performances are presented in various theaters across the country, and creative teams and artists are congratulated. Today is also commemorated as a memorable date when the rich path traveled by theater is remembered and the prospects for future development are discussed.
Medianews.az