Centre opened in honour of Russian poet who produced work that has impacted on culture worldwide
A research centre for Russian language and culture has been officially opened at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) as part of the School of Language and Global Studies.
The Vladimir Vysotsky Centre for Russian Studies has been named after a Russian poet, singer, songwriter and actor who died in 1980. His work is seen as significant as it continues to have a profound influence on the development of both Russian and world culture.
The main objective of the Centre is to overcome national stereotypes through intercultural dialogue and enable the development of cultural ties between Russia and Great Britain. It will conduct research and organise diverse cultural events in the field of Russian literature, history and art.
Director of the Centre and Head of Russian at UCLan Dr Olga Tabachnikova said: “I am very proud of this new opening. Only four years ago I was tasked with setting up Russian at UCLan as a degree subject, and now we have a new research centre. It’s a great accomplishment and incentive to continue our work. I am very grateful for the support of the School and especially our Head, Dr Daniel Waller, who made this possible.
“Vladimir Vysotsky is a Russian cultural hero, I grew up with his songs, as did an entire generation. It is a great privilege and honour to have a Centre named in his memory.”
"I am very proud of this new opening. Only four years ago I was tasked with setting up Russian at UCLan as a degree subject, and now we have a new research centre. It’s a great accomplishment and incentive to continue our work."
Russian language was introduced at UCLan as a degree subject in 2014. Since then, around 40 visitors specialising in Russian Studies have visited UCLan for research seminars, public lectures, concerts, theatre performances, poetry readings, film screenings and even Russian Orthodox icon painting masterclasses.
This new language and cultural hub will consolidate the work accomplished to date by Russian Studies at UCLan, as well as giving new impetus to the rich programme of events organised by Dr Tabachnikova. It will offer people a view of Russian culture not only from the British perspective, but also, significantly, through the eyes of Russians themselves, and popularise the artistic heritage of Vladimir Vysotsky in the English-speaking world.
The Centre is being supported by the Russian Embassy in London, which has donated materials including educational, scientific and fictional literature. Anton Chesnokov, a representative from the Embassy’s cultural arm the Russian Centre for Science and Culture, attended the opening event.
Find out more information on the Vladimir Vysotsky Centre for Russian Studies
Top banner image shows representatives from The UCLan Vladimir Vysotsky Centre for Russian Studies and the Russian Centre for Science and Culture at the official opening.
