Programs of the Centre for Culture and Sport
Throughout the year, the programs of the Centre for Culture will feature numerous scientific conferences and symposia dedicated to notable figures and historical events from Vasojevići and Montenegro. One of the main events, “Andrijevica Cultural Days,” will be held in July and August.
A valuable contribution to the development of culture in northern Montenegro is also reflected in the continuous activities carried out by the Centre for Culture and Sport “Mihailo Lalić” in Andrijevica, as stated in an interview for Dan by the institution’s director, Ivan Radojević. He emphasized that through numerous programs, events, and cultural initiatives, the institution provides opportunities for both established artists and talented young individuals to present their work and engage in various forms of artistic expression.
The institution is also dedicated to improving the cultural environment and promoting spiritual and cultural values in the Vasojevići region and beyond. According to Radojević, this fully justifies the existence of the Andrijevica Centre for Culture, which was established 33 years ago.
“Our mission is to bring culture closer to citizens through continuous work and diverse content. In this regard, we have connected all the necessary factors and, through dedicated use of our own capacities, we strive to promote and strengthen the cultural identity of Andrijevica while enriching it with programs worthy of attention. The results behind us clearly show that we have much to be proud of,” Radojević emphasized.
The Centre for Culture in Andrijevica is well-equipped both in terms of facilities and staff, ensuring proper and efficient operation. He also highlighted the institution’s strong cooperation with state institutions, associations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals.
“Our progress is confirmed by our successful cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts, the National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the State Archives, the Montenegrin Cinematheque, the Music Centre of Montenegro, numerous educational institutions, theatres across the region, associations, NGOs, and independent artists,” Radojević pointed out.
Andrijevica Cultural Days
One of the most significant projects organized by the Centre for Culture is “Andrijevica Cultural Days.”
“This event promotes the cultural heritage of the region through literary presentations, art exhibitions, theatre performances, musical programs, artist gatherings, scientific conferences, round tables, visits to cultural monuments, and many other activities. It encourages the strengthening of culture and the creation of new cultural products aligned with modern trends. This is best evidenced by the numerous visitors who have expressed only praise for the program, as well as by the positive evaluations from cultural critics,” Radojević stated.
Performing Arts
Long-standing cooperation with institutions in Montenegro, numerous cooperation agreements, and partnerships with cultural institutions in the region will once again enable a rich theatrical program at the Centre.
Performances will include guest appearances by the Montenegrin National Theatre, Teatar 303 from Kotor, Bijelo Polje Theatre, Drama Studio from Plav, Children’s Theatre “Stanković,” Puppet Theatre from Niš, Drama Studio “Prazan Prostor” from Podgorica, and the theatre troupe “MoniCart” from Belgrade.
In addition, cooperation with the Film Centre of Podgorica and distributors “Delijus Film” and “Art Vista” from Belgrade guarantees that audiences will have the opportunity to watch the latest film productions, including films for children.
The project “Andrijevica Cultural Days” has also been included in this year’s program as one of the main events to be held in July and August. According to Radojević, the planned program confirms a high level of quality.
“The participants themselves—renowned artists highly ranked on the cultural scene of Montenegro and beyond—are proof that we will once again have high-quality programs this summer. I am confident that this project will further enrich the cultural life of the municipality of Andrijevica,” he added.
Year-Round Cultural Activities
Radojević also pointed out that the Centre’s annual program will include numerous scientific gatherings and symposia focused on historical figures and events from Vasojevići and Montenegro.
He highlighted evenings dedicated to the literary works of Vukman Otašević and Vlajko Ćulafić, as well as events such as “Days of Mihailo Lalić” and “Njegoš Days.”
A Reading Room to Be Proud Of
Radojević reminded that the Centre also operates a reading room founded 134 years ago.
“We are especially proud of the history of our reading room, established in 1892 on Saint Sava’s Day. It is the first reading room in northern Montenegro and the second oldest in the country, after the one in Cetinje. It was founded under the patronage of Prince Mirko, with 40 members at the time of its establishment. Today, the reading room—now a modern library—is equipped with contemporary facilities and occupies 180 square meters. The library holds a large and continuously growing collection of books, offering something for every reader—from literary works to professional, educational, and school literature,” Radojević said.
Community Engagement
Radojević also emphasized that the Centre plays an important role in organizing municipal-level events in cooperation with educational institutions, NGOs, local communities, and other stakeholders.
“Every year we participate in organizing the Saint Sava Academy, the Municipal Recitation Festival, music events such as ‘The First Voice of Vasojevići,’ as well as the annual concert of the cultural and artistic society ‘Komovi.’ We also take part in traditional gatherings held in Savino Selo near Vrbas,” he added.
The institution remains open to all promoters and lovers of quality programs and cultural values.
“Through openness to various forms of cultural expression, we have earned respect and recognition. The Centre for Culture is, along with traditional hospitality, a place people gladly visit and whose invitations are rarely declined. We will continue working in that spirit, for the benefit of our community and culture as a whole,” Radojević concluded.
Source: Dan Portal
