On 6 November 2026, the opening ceremony of the 5th International Theatre Festival was held in Ashgabat. The cultural event brings together creative groups, stage artists and theatre professionals from Kazakhstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Armenia and Turkmenistan.

The festival commenced with a ceremonial procession of theatre groups held in the square in front of the Main Academic Drama Theatre of Turkmenistan.

During the official opening ceremony, a congratulatory message from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, addressed to the festival participants and guests was read out. In his message, the Head of State noted that ongoing creative and professional exchanges between theatre groups from friendly countries are an important part of cultural diplomacy. He also emphasised their significant role in strengthening international humanitarian dialogue and enriching the cultures of different peoples through mutual exchange.

The festival's opening programme continued with performances by foreign delegations and video presentations introducing the stage productions that will be shown to audiences. New productions representing various genres, as well as renowned performances that have won the hearts of audiences, will be presented on the theatre stages of Ashgabat. Their themes include moral integrity, friendship, humanism and the search for spiritual values.

A working meeting involving theatre directors and artistic directors will also be held as part of the International Theatre Festival. Participants will discuss opportunities for the development of performing arts, expanding cooperation between theatre companies and implementing joint creative projects.

The results of the 5th International Theatre Festival will be announced on 8 November. This cultural forum provides extensive opportunities for representatives of theatrical arts from different countries to exchange experience, develop creative partnerships and strengthen cultural cooperation among peoples.