60 Years of the Student Musical Theatre at the National Academy of Music “Prof. Pancho Vladigerov”

The Student Musical Theatre at the National Academy of Music “Prof. Pancho Vladigerov” is celebrating its 60th anniversary—a milestone that marks six decades in which its stage has become an essential part of the Academy’s artistic life and a launchpad for countless young talents.

Founded in 1963 by Prof. Dr. Rozalia Bix, the theatre was created to give students practical stage experience in a real theatrical environment. Among its early champions and long-time collaborators were Assoc. Prof. Ruzha Baleva, Prof. Pavel Gerdzhikov, and Prof. Plamen Kartaloff—figures who have left a lasting impact on its artistic development. To this day, the theatre continues to serve as a crucial link between academic training and professional performance.

The anniversary will be marked with a celebratory concert at the “Prof. Ivan Vulpe” Concert Hall. The program will feature selected highlights from the theatre’s rich repertoire—beloved arias, duets, and ensembles from operas and operettas performed by current students and recent graduates of the Academy.

The event is not only a moment of reflection, but also a celebration of a living tradition that brings together educators, conductors, directors, and students in a shared effort to preserve and promote the art of musical theatre in Bulgaria.