Kathmandu, Nepal - August 31, 2026 -Distinguished Russian ballet artist and choreographer Ekaterina Chernykh, a professional associated with the Bolshoi Theatre, performed alongside Nepali dancers at Real Rhythm & Soul 2026, an annual gala celebrating artistic expression and cultural exchange. The programme was presented in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Nepal.

Organized by Sushila Arts Academy (SAA) in collaboration with the Russian House in Kathmandu, the gala was held on August 31 at the D.A.V. Auditorium (Budha Hall), Kathmandu.

A Celebration of Russia–Nepal Cultural Friendship

First launched in 2013, Rhythm and Soul has developed into a longstanding platform for collaboration between Nepali and international artists. Over the years, the programme has provided young Nepali dancers with opportunities to learn from experienced professionals while introducing audiences to diverse dance traditions and artistic disciplines.

The 2026 edition was particularly significant as part of the cultural activities marking 70 years of Russia–Nepal diplomatic relations, established in 1956. The programme brought together artists from different backgrounds, demonstrating the important role of culture and education in strengthening people-to-people relations.

Russian Ballet on the Kathmandu Stage

A highlight of the programme was the presentation of classical Russian ballet excerpts, performed by Ekaterina Chernykh together with Nepali dancers. The presentation included fragments inspired by renowned classical works, including “The Dying Swan” and the Russian Dance and Spanish Dance from Swan Lake.

These performances offered Nepali audiences a glimpse into the elegance, discipline, expressive movement, and rich artistic heritage of the Russian classical ballet tradition.

The gala also featured contemporary dance, aerial performance, Nepali and other cultural dances, Indian classical dance, hip-hop, breaking and B-boying, live violin performance, theatre, and storytelling, creating a dynamic fusion of traditional and contemporary forms.

Ekaterina Chernykh: Russian Ballet Professional

Ekaterina Chernykh is a professional ballerina, teacher, coach, choreographer, and director with extensive experience in classical ballet, jazz, neoclassical, and modern dance.

A graduate of the Rostov Choreographic College, a branch of the Moscow State Academy of Choreography, she participated in the historic reopening of the Bolshoi Theatre's main stage in 2011. She later performed with the Moscow Ballet of Classical Choreography and has toured professionally in more than 70 countries.

Her artistic career includes participation in more than 50 productions and over 300 choreographic works, as well as professional master classes and educational programmes in Russia, China, Spain, and other countries.

Russian Ballet Master Classes

As part of the anniversary programme, Russian ballet master classes led by Ekaterina Chernykh were conducted at the Russian House in Kathmandu on August 29, 2026.

The sessions brought together Nepali choreography teachers, young dancers, and students from Sushila Arts Academy and other participating groups. The classes focused on Russian ballet methodology, professional choreography techniques, movement, and dance education, providing valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing between Russian and Nepali practitioners.

Real Rhythm & Soul 2026: A Story of Courage and Unity

The 2026 production presented an artistic narrative centred on self-belief, courage, kindness, and unity. Through the story of Ash, a bird who struggles to recognize his own worth, the production explored a journey from self-doubt to self-discovery.

When the forest faced danger, Ash's courage, compassion, and selflessness brought the characters together, leading to his transformation into the Phoenix. The story conveyed a universal message that true strength and beauty come from within and that compassion and solidarity can inspire positive change.

Sushila Arts Academy and the Russian House

Founded in 2012 by Yulia Koirala, Sushila Arts Academy was established in memory of Sushila Koirala, a respected Nepali dancer and theatre director. The Academy works across music, dance, visual arts, and theatre, and operates a ballet school dedicated to arts education and the development of young artists.

The Russian House in Kathmandu has maintained a longstanding partnership with the Academy through cultural and educational initiatives, including performing arts projects, drama classes, and joint productions such as Anton Chekhov's The Seagull.

Culture and Community Support

The programme also carried a humanitarian dimension, with part of the funds raised through the gala concert intended to support people affected by devastating floods in Nepal. This initiative highlighted the ability of cultural programmes to contribute not only to artistic exchange but also to community support and humanitarian solidarity.

Strengthening Friendship Through Culture

Real Rhythm & Soul 2026 brought together professional artistic exchange, youth engagement, education, cultural diversity, and humanitarian support under one programme.

As Russia and Nepal commemorate 70 years of diplomatic relations, the participation of Russian and Nepali artists on a shared stage provided a meaningful expression of the longstanding friendship between the two countries. Through ballet, theatre, music, dance, and arts education, the programme demonstrated that culture remains a powerful bridge connecting peoples and strengthening mutual understanding.

The successful presentation of Real Rhythm & Soul 2026 reaffirmed the continuing importance of cultural diplomacy and artistic cooperation in building stronger connections between Russia and Nepal and inspiring future generations.