The Center of Russian Science and Culture in Addis Ababa recently hosted a commemorative event at Pushkin Hall to celebrate the 100th anniversary of MOS Film in Moscow. The occasion featured screenings of some of Russia’s most celebrated films, including several internationally acclaimed works, drawing a diverse audience eager to experience Russian cinema and culture.
“I had a great experience,” said Natnael Asnake, an attendee. “The movie brought an old-school vibe. I also experienced Russian culture and tasted their amazing chocolate. I hope to have more of these programs soon.”
The event not only showcased Russian films but also served as a platform for cultural exchange, strengthening the ties between Russia and Ethiopia. Established in 1995, the Russian Science and Culture Center in Ethiopia has been pivotal in promoting artistic and cultural connections between the two nations.
Germew Sewaro, a technical manager at the Center, highlighted its impact, saying, “The center has made an incredible impact on Ethiopian art. Many artists were born here.” He reminisced about the heyday of Pushkin Hall, known for its Russian film screenings and poetry and literature events.
Germew expressed amazement at the large crowds that used to gather to watch Russian films since the time of Emperor Haile Selassie I, with the hall sometimes overflowing. However, he lamented the current decline in visitors, emphasizing that Pushkin Hall does not charge for organizing literature, poetry, or cinema nights. He says the Center has not held artistic and poetry evenings for over a decade.
“We miss the vibe, and we want to let the young people use it,” he said, adding that efforts are underway to reignite these cultural events. He cited internal problems and the increase of other cinemas and theatres as reasons for the decline, emphasizing that Pushkin Hall does not charge for organizing literature, poetry, or cinema nights.
The Center emphasizes its role not only in showcasing Russian films but also in celebrating Russian national holidays, such as Russian National Day on June 12th and Victory Day on May 9th, often attended by Russian diplomats, scholars, and regular citizens.
Alexander Evstigneev, the director of the Russian Center of Science and Culture, spoke about various programs, including scholarship programs and Russian language classes, with students paying a nominal fee of 300 birr per month for the language program.
The Director mentioned the center’s support for Ethiopian students aspiring to study in Moscow, with financial assistance provided to approximately 100 students last year. “We want to inform young students who wish to study in Moscow that they can easily apply through our website and seize this opportunity,” he explained.
Pushkin Hall has nurtured numerous young artists in the past, with veterans such as Wasihun Belay, Fekadu Kebede, Misrak Tefera, Netsanet Workneh, and Abebe Melaku as examples. However, Geremew noted that the contributions of Pushkin Hall have been overlooked by today’s youth.
“Any art enthusiast is welcome to utilize the hall for the advancement of art,” he said, expressing a desire to revive the poetry and literary evenings that were once a hallmark of the venue. He further mentioned that there will be no charge for organizing such programs, encouraging young individuals to seize this valuable opportunity.
The Alatinos Filmmakers Association, established 18 years ago, has been working with the center, organizing film screenings, programs, and theoretical sessions at Pushkin Hall. Menelik Merid, president of the Alatinos Film Association, emphasized its commitment to fostering a community of over 500 permanent members aimed at cultivating knowledge and experience among film professionals.
“Our current initiatives include regular Thursday programs engaging numerous young participants, with contributions from Russian and local film experts,” Menelik noted.
The Russian Embassy has announced plans to completely renovate Pushkin Hall next year, introducing modern equipment suitable for the youth.
Eden Kelem, a film director and young participant, praised the Thursday programs organized by Alatinos at Pushkin Hall.
“I never miss the Thursday program. It has great benefits for us filmmakers and the youth,” she said, emphasizing the significance of the Film Criticism program, noting its benefits for both professionals and newcomers. “I recommend young people and film enthusiasts to take advantage of this free opportunity,” she added.
