The Bulgarian government approved a significant increase in funding for state cultural institutions in the field of performing arts, announced Minister of Culture Marian Bachev during a briefing at the Council of Ministers. The additional funds amounting to 34 million leva will be distributed among theaters, operas, philharmonic societies, and other cultural organizations.
Minister Bachev emphasized that this decision is a logical continuation of the policy to support performing arts and the entire cultural sector. He pointed out that the budget for performing arts for 2025 had already been increased by 6 million leva compared to the previous year, reaching 165 million leva.
"Usually, such an increase occurs about six months after the budget is adopted. In this case, we reacted much faster - from March until now", the minister explained.
He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Minister of Finance Temenuzhka Petkova for their support and understanding regarding the need for additional funding.
Bachev emphasized that these funds are not just numbers, but represent real opportunities for cultural institutions.
"These are additional opportunities for tours, new performances, new concerts, and reaching a larger audience", he stated.
The Minister of Culture categorically rejected speculations about possible theater closures or freezing of troupes. He assured that with this decision, the government demonstrates its commitment to the development and maintenance of the cultural sector in the country.
Additionally, Bachev informed that work is currently underway to revise the methodology for subsidizing state cultural institutions that are on a delegated budget. This aims to optimize the distribution of funds and ensure more effective use of resources in the cultural sphere.
This increase in funding is expected to give a significant boost to cultural life in Bulgaria, allowing institutions to expand their activities, improve the quality of their productions, and reach a wider audience. The government's decision is a clear signal of prioritizing culture as an important factor for social development and national identity.