Mariinsky Theater Director Valery Gergiev Made UNESCO 'Artist for Peace' - 2 April, 2003

UNESCO has conferred its highest honour of 'Artist for Peace' on Valery Gergiev, the Mariinsky Theatre's Artistic Director. The award ceremony took place on Monday, March 31 in Paris.

The Mariinsky Theatre's press office told Rosbalt that the title 'Artist for Peace' is awarded by UNESCO to cultural figures 'in recognition of their contribution to peace.' Gergiev received his award during the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania Days, which were held at UNESCO's Paris headquarters. Gergiev was not able to attend the ceremony in person, so the award was presented to his sister.

Gergiev is currently presenting a new version of the opera Othello in New York. It is a joint production by the Mariinsky Theatre and the Metropolitan Opera. The opera premiered on March 10. Gergiev is acting as a guest conductor for the production.