Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a resolution "On Measures to Enhance the Role of Theaters in the Cultural Life of Society and Further Support Their Activities."

The document aims to strengthen theatrical arts, support creative initiatives, and promote national culture.

In accordance with the resolution, two prestigious awards have been established: the Mahmudkhudja Behbudi Prize for playwrights and the Bahodir Yuldashev Prize for young directors. These awards will be given every two years, with the laureates receiving a monetary reward equal to 50 times the minimum wage.

Starting from 2025, the "Nighoh" project will be launched annually in August. The goal of this project is to strengthen creative collaboration among directors, playwrights, composers, and artists. Additionally, a national composers’ competition will be held every two years to promote and develop National Academic Music Art.

An Academy of Theatrical Directors will be established at the State Academic Grand Theatre of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi. Beginning in 2025, competitions for "Best Plays" will be held on historical and contemporary themes. A national ranking of theater groups in the country will also be created.

Particular attention is being given to attracting the public, especially the youth, to attend theaters. As part of the "Theater-Temple" program, "Theater Day" events will be organized in mahallas in collaboration with members of the "mahalla seven." Citizens from the "Iron," "Women’s," and "Youth" notebooks, as well as people with disabilities, will be able to attend performances at state theaters for free.

The Uzbek State Musical Theatre named after Mukimi has been granted the status of "Academic." By the end of 2026, the State Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan will be transformed into a modern exemplary theater.

Furthermore, from 1 January 2025, to 31 December 2026, as part of a legal experiment, the State Youth Theatre of Uzbekistan and the State Academic Grand Theatre of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi will be granted the authority to independently address financial, creative, and organizational matters.