Valery Gergiev Appointed Bolshoi Theater's General Manager, Sparking Controversy

Valery Gergiev, a prominent supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the head of the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, has been chosen to lead the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow, replacing Vladimir Urin. Gergiev's appointment expands his dominance in Russian culture and comes after Urin spoke out against the war in Ukraine. Gergiev will serve a five-year term and expressed his intention for the Bolshoi to focus on working within Russia. This move by Putin rewards a renowned musician and staunch ally who has endorsed his re-election and promoted his policies.