Bulgaria marks 100 years since the death of famous writer Ivan Vazov

On September 22, 2021, Bulgaria marks 100 years since the death of the famous Bulgarian poet, novelist and playwright, Ivan Vazov, often referred to as the "Patriarch of the Bulgarian Literature.

The National Museum of Literature and “Ivan Vazov” National Theatre will honour their patron with a special programme the Ministry of Culture announced.

The National Museum of Literature, as part of the tradition, organizes a commemoration ceremony, which will be held on September 22 at 11.00 at the grave of the writer, located in the garden behind "St. Sofia" church. The memorial service will be attended by representatives of the National Museum of Literature, relatives of Ivan Vazov, representatives of state, scientific and cultural institutions in the country. Actor Georgi Zlatarev will perform a recital of Vazov's poems.

The house-museum "Ivan Vazov" in Sofia will arrange a temporary exhibition organized by the Ministry of Education, displaying exhibits related to his death: the death mask, the funeral programme, a list of Vazov works placed in the tomb during the burial of his remains, photographs, letters, drawings, etc.

Throughout the day on September 22, the house-museum “Ivan Vazov” will offer free-of-charge visits.

“Ivan Vazov” National Theater dedicated the entire programme of this year's edition of “Theatre in Front of the Theatre” to its patron. On September 22, award ceremony will take place of the annual prize for spiritual contribution, established by the national theatre and named after the poet and novelist

An excerpt from the premiere performance of "Vazov’s People" will be presented, as well as a concert by the symphony orchestra of Plovdiv State Opera of Plovdiv with conductor Maxim Eshkenazi and violinist Svetlin Rusev.

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Ivan Vazov is a Bulgarian poet, writer and prominent public figure.

His works reveal two historical epochs - the Bulgarian Renaissance and the Post-Liberation (from Ottoman Rule) epoch. Ivan Vazov holds the highest honorary title of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences - Academician. He acted as Education and People Enlightenment Minister from September 7, 1897 until January 30, 1899.

Vazov’s novel "Under the Yoke" is the most famous piece of classic Bulgarian literature and has been translated into over 30 languages.