Traditionally, on the opening day of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, a ceremonial session of the Festival Council was held, chaired by the Minister of Culture and Media, Nina Obuljen Koržinek. She began by expressing special thanks to the new Artistic Director, Martina Filjak, for accepting the challenge.
"Two days ago, you presented the program, which resonated strongly with the Croatian public. What Martina Filjak brings with her associates is a high level of professionalism and a clear recognition of what a traditional festival can and should offer in today's times. It’s not easy to be constrained by form while delivering content that is both contemporary and relevant. In terms of the program, we have an exceptional Festival. I would particularly highlight the thematic connection to the Mediterranean, with themes for future editions already being developed. This is how you can tell a story. I am very pleased that the Mediterranean dimension of this Festival and its program is well-rounded and beautifully told. The program is highly valued and recognized by the professional public in international media. I encouraged Martina to consider the timing, dates, and many other aspects, and much thought has been put into it. Even under challenging production conditions, the Festival can offer an excellent program. As a Ministry, we will continue to provide funding and support," announced Obuljen Koržinek.
Filjak expressed her gratitude on several levels. She noted that the Festival, on the occasion of its 75th anniversary, is collaborating with many cultural institutions in Dubrovnik, which she described as excellent.
"It’s not just about bringing great artists to the City; it's important to showcase the best of the City. I am particularly pleased that we are collaborating with all cultural institutions in Dubrovnik, all of which will be represented in some way at the Opening. As for the program, we have 21 concerts and four dramatic premieres. The Mediterranean theme runs through the entire program, sometimes more strongly, sometimes more subtly. Among those 21 concerts, we have several big stars. It was important to me that these are people who are very relevant and on an upward trajectory. We cannot say that there is a lack of Croatian artists and Croatian music, and we have not forgotten the anniversaries either," said Filjak.
Mayor Mato Franković commented on the program.
"We have talked a lot about what and where we want the Dubrovnik Summer Festival to be. We want it to be international, and we also want it to be ours. The 75th Festival has fully met our expectations in terms of our desires; it is both international and ours. The dress rehearsal showed everything that Dubrovnik has to offer; it is absolutely Dubrovnik in every segment. There are also the children of the City who have lived and grown up here with the Summer Festival. I believe that each of our fellow citizens will find something for themselves. The interest in the programs is such that tickets have been in demand for a month and a half, which speaks volumes about this year's Festival. I anticipate this Festival with excitement; this is not the best Croatian festival, this is certainly one of the top three European festivals of this kind," stated Franković.
